Greetings from Little RES Q

The Little RES Q is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and relocation of exotic pet reptiles in an attempt to keep them from being released into the wild. We provide a better option for those who, for one reason or another, cannot take care of their reptiles anymore. Founded in 2008 by Marc Ouellette, the rescue started as a dedicated aquatic turtle shelter in Toronto and now accepts in most legal reptiles as space permits.

Many small reptiles, especially turtles, get purchased as a pet for a young family member without fully understanding the costs in both material and time needed for proper care of the animal. Sadly all too often these poor creatures suffer from neglect even with the owner's best intentions.

We are a limited admittance shelter that restricts intake in order to uphold a standard in quality of life for the surrenders in our care. We implement a waiting list when necessary, use a foster care network to help, and emphasize adoption and responsible pet ownership for all types of reptiles.

Meet Audrey

Our spokes turtle against animal cruelty

My name is Audrey. I survived over 20 years living in a bucket and I'm now a spokes-turtle for animal cruelty against reptiles.

I was born a perfectly normal red eared slider. However, I was kept in a bucket and not cared for properly for over 20 years. As the walls of my home closed in on me I deformed in order to survive. When my original owner passed away I was brought to a shelter to be put down but the vet took pity on me and gave me a second chance at life.

I was transferred between specialists before ending up at the Little RES Q turtle rescue in Toronto Ontario Canada. Now I'm part of their team as a spokes-turtle for animal cruelty against reptiles.

My name is Audrey, and I'm beautiful.


Join Audrey on Facebook and Twitter:





Current Positions Available:

We have 3 volunteer positions available at the rescue for qualified individuals who would like to lend a hand and take over some of the responsibilities that are currently being undertaken by our board members. Should any of these positions appeal to you, please send us an email.


Adoption Coordinator

As Adoption Coordinator, you will enjoy working with the public. You possess excellent communication skills both verbal and written and are well organized and task oriented.

You will directly manage all activities of the adoption process, including screening potential adopters. The Adoption Coordinator will be responsible for posting our available animals on various websites and keeping that information up to date. You will help promote the animals for adoption and advocate for the benefits of adopting an adult reptile versus a baby animal. Working closely with the Foster Coordinator, you will assist in evaluation of all animals and suitability for placement in temporary homes. An individual who can set goals that work toward the Mission Statement of the program is mandatory.

This position will require a self motivated individual with excellent leadership skills and an ability to deal with difficult situations. Preference will be given to those who have some experience in reptile behaviour.


Foster Coordinator

The Foster Program Coordinator recruits new foster homes in the community, and coordinates the transfer of animals between locations including asking the Volunteer Coordinator for assistance in transport to an event or vet. You provide ongoing support to foster families, tracking foster information and updating the spreadsheet as needed. You ensure animals have all necessary supplies and health attention. Conduct pre-foster-in home interviews, schedule veterinary appointments for foster pets and assist in relocating pets as needed. Promptly field foster phone calls and emails and address any applicable issues. Maintain paperwork, including up-to-date information on all fosters and reviews the initial foster application, references and completes contract.


Volunteer Coordinator

As the Volunteer Coordinator you will develop an active volunteer program for all aspects of the rescue. Directly manage all activities related to the recruitment, orientation, development and evaluation of the rescue’s volunteer program. Provide volunteer appreciation as well as planning and hosting annual volunteer recognition event. Foster environments in which all volunteers consider themselves part of achieving the mission statement of the program.

Duties Include but are not limited to:

Recruit volunteers and ensure that all required background checks and records are completed.
Develop and deliver volunteer orientation, place volunteers in appropriate assignments and assist respective volunteer staff with training.
Serve as liaison with volunteers and the board of directors.
Provide annual performance review for each volunteer.
Coordinate and/or assist in planning and execution of special events requiring the use of volunteers.
Coordinate and recruit volunteers as needed for special events and activities. Experience in volunteer organizations with an emphasis on management is preferred. Demonstrating exceptional interpersonal, communication and organizational skills, ability to work as part of a team is required.