Bob Barker Donates $50K To The Wildcat Sanctuary

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Claw-some! Legendary TV personality Bob Barker has donated a whopping $50,000 to The Wildcat Sanctuary.

Barker, along with the DJ&T Foundation, made the donation to the nonprofit rescue as a challenge grant. That means every dollar received by Aug. 31 (up to $50,000) will be matched.

The sanctuary needs to raise over $100,000 for a temperature-controlled building for up to 13 tigers, cougars, lynx and bobcats – all before winter.

"We're so honored to receive such a special gift from a person who does so much for animals. His support is humbling and will benefit so many rescued big cats as well as inspire others to help," sanctuary director Tammy Thies said.

It's the first grant from Barker that the Sandstone, Minnesota sanctuary has received.

Barker, who formerly hosted "The Price Is Right", was known for ending every episode with "Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered." He also has a passion for helping end the exploitation of animals around the world.