Watch My Life Is a Zoo

My Life Is a Zoo, a documentary series from National Geographic Wild, stars animal lover and activist Carrie Cramer and her husband, Bud DeYoung who are passionate about caring for animals that are in need of a home. Cramer has a long history of caring for animals beginning as a child when she would bring home every stray animal that crossed her path. Her love of animals led her to work for the Michigan Humane Society where she met DeYoung, a fellow animal lover.

The show follows Cramer and DeYoung as they run their Michigan-based zoo, DeYoung Family Zoo, where they house over 400 animals from all over the world. The couple uprooted their lives to create this sanctuary for animals and maintain it solely on their own. The animals they care for are often injured, abandoned or donated by other zoos that require more space.

The show gives the viewers an up-close insight into the daily routine of Cramer, DeYoung and their team, including the animals that they care for. From feeding the animals to providing them with medical care, viewers witness the hard work and dedication that goes into running the zoo. The animals that Cramer and DeYoung take care of range from more well-known breeds such as lions, tigers, and bears to more unusual creatures, such as crocodiles, primates and birds of prey. The zoo also homes a rare white lioness and her cubs, whose conservation status is under threat.

The show highlights the bond between the couple and the animals in their care. Some of the animals have been with them for decades, such as Kodiak the grizzly bear who has been with them since he was a cub. Others are new arrivals, such as Frosty the baby otter, who was found abandoned on a beach in Alaska. Cramer and DeYoung's love for their animals is clear, and it is heartwarming to see them interact with the animals on a personal level.

Throughout the series, viewers also witness how Cramer and DeYoung use their platform to educate the public on the importance of animal welfare, conservation and the dangers of exotic pet trade. The show is not afraid to highlight the hard-hitting issues surrounding the mistreatment of animals, such as the impact of climate change on animal habitats or the dark world of illegal animal trade. They also invite members of the local community to visit the zoo and educate them on their rescue, conservation, and education efforts.

The show's camera work is remarkable, often capturing the intimate moments between animals and their caretakers, such as playing with animal cubs, nursing injured animals or even walking among the free-ranging deer. The camera work also showcases the animals' natural habitats, bringing the true essence of the animal world to the screens.

Overall, My Life Is a Zoo is a heartwarming, educational and jaw-dropping show that highlights the issues facing animal welfare and conservation. The show's unique perspective on the animal world is a testament to Cramer and DeYoung's dedication, passion and love for the animals in their care. Viewers will leave feeling inspired and more knowledgeable about the world of animal welfare.