On October 24, Lions Tigers and Bears welcomed members and guests to meet the new tiger cub that has made LTB his home. This was also the perfect time to ask for suggestions on naming this little guy who is winning hearts with his cubby charm and grace. During the event, it was decided that his name would be “Himmel” after the well known and loved, San Diego newscaster Larry Himmel who had recently passed away.
On October 24, Lions Tigers and Bears welcomed members and guests to meet the new tiger cub that has made LTB his home. This was also the perfect time to ask for suggestions on naming this little guy who is winning hearts with his cubby charm and grace. During the event, it was decided that his name would be “Himmel” after the well known and loved, San Diego newscaster Larry Himmel who had recently passed away.
In early September, Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB) was called on by the California Department of Fish &Wildlife to provide refuge to a 3 month old tiger cub that was anonymously turned in to the Ramona Humane Society in San Jacinto on September 3rd. As an accredited big cat and exotic animal rescue sanctuary, the Department deemed LTB the best fit to house the cub, as his origin is unknown and is under investigation.
LTB’s veterinary team provided the cub with a full baseline wellness exam including: physical examination, dental examination and blood and fecal analysis shortly after arriving to our sanctuary.
The cub’s anterior paws had been declawed by his previous owner. This type of procedure is inherently cruel and can cause major complications later in life, including joint stiffness, chronic pain and arthritis.Initial tests came back clear of parasites, however his blood panel showed an elevated white blood cell count, and he has apparent signs of malnutrition.
Sadly, stories such as his are far too common – a cub is bought illegally as a pet, and the novelty quickly wears off. The cub gets sold off, or worse yet, dumped and left to be forgotten about. Luckily, for this cub, he was turned into the shelter and made his way to our sanctuary, where he will receive the specialized care he requires.
Bobbi Brink, Founder and Director of LTB commented “Cubs born into captivity, bought, sold and traded, are a tragic circumstance that is perpetuated by ignorance. A cub this young should be with his mother and brothers and/or sisters. Right now this cub needs attention, and he needs to get healthy.” Since arrival, the cub underwent a second veterinary examination in which radiographs were taken of his paws and full body. He is being monitored closely by our keeper staff and veterinary team.
It costs a minimum of $10,000 per year to provide basic essentials ie; food and medical care, to one tiger at LTB. This is a base cost that does not include unforeseen medical procedures, habitat expansions or other necessities that may arise. LTB is requesting donations in honor of this cub to help provide lifetime care. Together we can ensure that this little cub receives top notch care here at Lions Tigers & Bears. Thank you for your support.
