welcome toLions Tigers & Bears Sanctuary
" To animals born in captivity and fated to be ignored and abused, I've dedicated this organization." - Bobbi Brink, Founder
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Join our PrideBecome a Member ofLions Tigers & BearsMembership is a great way to give back to the animals. Become a member and take a stand.
Our Mission
Lions Tigers & Bears is dedicated to providing a safe haven to abused and abandoned exotic animals and to inspiring an educational forum to end the exotic animal trade. As a state and federally licensed 501(c)(3) non-profit, we are a NO KILL, NO BREED sanctuary that allows the animals in our care to live out their lives with dignity in a caring and safe environment.
Turkey Bash
Come get WILD at Lions Tigers & Bears the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving - and watch our rescued big cats and bears enjoy their Thanksgiving Feast. This event is a special twist on our regularly scheduled 10 AM guided educational visit.
Christmas with the Animals
Come watch the animals open their Christmas presents and celebrate the holiday season in the beautiful San Diego countryside with fresh air and wide open spaces alongside your friends, family, and the animals!
Virtual Meet n' Greet
Invite a big cat or bear to your next meeting!
Invite a big cat or bear to your next virtual meeting - and it will be guaranteed to be one that your co-workers or friends and family will never forget! Are you practicing social distancing? Does that mean virtual meetings are your new norm? Lions Tigers & Bears' WILD VIRTUAL Meet n' Greets are the perfect way to shake up the monotony of your virtual meetings - and the best part is - your participating benefits the animals!
Donor Spotlight
"When I was invited by friends to go visit Lions Tigers & Bears three years ago, I was very skeptical. I am NOT a fan of zoos. I am not a fan of animals in captivity of any kind. And even after I was assured that this was not a zoo I still had my doubts."
Read the rest of the Bowlen's story and find out how they became avid supporters of our sanctuary.
What 'Tiger King' Doesn't Tell You
The Netflix docuseries, Tiger King, has taken the internet by storm, sending shockwaves and loads of memes across the interweb, all while rising to the ranks of the #1 series on the streaming service. However, the docuseries fell short in its depiction of the reality that captive big cats endure when exploited for profit in the U.S. Click below to learn more.
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Lions Tigers & Bears
Happy birthday beautiful boy!?
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We're celebrating not just a birthday today - but Moka's rescue - and a life free from abusive exploitation.
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Moka was lucky - finding lifetime refuge at an accredited sanctuary - but many more tigers bred for the exotic animal trade are not. Thank you for following Moka's journey + for continuing to support LTB's critical rescue and education work.
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Your donations, membership, visits, volunteer efforts and support truly make a difference and ensure that animals like Moka live with dignity and respect.
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Will you consider a donation of $27 today to support Moka's lifetime care at LTB?โค๏ธ it costs over $10K/year - or $27/day - for basic food and care for a tiger like Moka. Your donation at any level keeps Moka and tigers like him safe.
Swipe ? for adorable baby Moka video taken by @sdzsafaripark. Do you want to send Moka a birthday message?
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Happy Funday Fur-iday ?? from rescued grizzly Albert. Are you staying cool like this big guy??
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How bear-y? cute is this video of rescued Himalayan bear Teddy eating his apple?? ??
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?Volunteer Alyssa
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Fun fact: Meatball starts every day with a great big grin? Can this rescued bear motivate you to smile this Monday???
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Moka+ Nola= #SundayFunday
Couldn't you watch these two ???all day?
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?Volunteer Alyssa
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Happy Caturday?from rescued tiger Moka! Moka's 1st birthday at LTB is just one week away - 7/27 during the 10 am visit. Are you coming to watch him open his presents??
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Slide?to see a baby pic of Moka after he was first rescued from animal traffickers - ?@drmonicaharms. Do you remember when Moka was that small?!
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?Your donations in action!โจ Thank you bear-y much for donating to Liberty's birthday fundraiser and making her bday wish come true? The new bear ? culvert has been installed and the bears are loving it!!!
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LTB is also working on adding a new den in Liberty's safety bedroom. Your donation at any level will help us finish this much needed work for the black bears?? Thank you!
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On a scale from 1 to 10 how awesome is this throwback video of rescued white tiger Nola playing in the water?? This girl always has SO much fun with H2O?
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Just a reminder: Please don't pay to see white tigers in performances or pay to hold or play with tiger cubs. There are no legitimate accredited breeding programs for white tigers. White tigers have no conservation value โ they are bred solely in captivity for exploitation.
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White tigers are not a separate species - they're Bengal tigers and mixed-breed tigers that have been inbred to carry a very rare recessive gene for white fur. This inbreeding causes white tigers to suffer from extremely high rates of many congenital health problems including facial deformities and vision problems.
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If you want to see a white tiger and learn more about them, visit a true sanctuary like LTB where proceeds from your visit support lifelong care for rescued animals like Nola?
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?Volunteer Alyssa
Lions Tigers & Bears
Can you imagine living each day in fear, kept captive in a tiny cage, while people yell at you and shake you?
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That was Clarence's reality for over a decade at an Ohio fur farm, where this bobcat was used for his urine which was then sold to hunters.
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To harvest his urine, the fur farm owners would scare it out of him each day - shaking Clarence's cage, shouting at him and intimidating him until he would urinate. These daily sessions traumatized Clarence, exposing him to ongoing stress.
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When he was rescued by LTB in 2015, Clarence was understandably cautious. It took him a while to adjust to his new surroundings and trust that no-one was going to hurt him anymore.
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Over the past four year, Clarence has transformed? Now he spends his days watching the birds and napping. He enjoys catnip as well as a good treat. He's also forged a strong bond with fellow rescued bobcat Mia. The two can often be found hanging out together.
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Clarence no longer lives a life dominated by fear. He is safe thanks to youโค๏ธ
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LTB couldn't save animals like Clarence without your help. Your donation at any level truly makes a difference for Clarence and all the rescued animals.
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Surprise - Moka's taking a turn in the big pool! He + Nola? were just rotated into a different habitat as part of their ongoing enrichment.
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Exploring new spaces like this provides a physical and mental challenge ? for captive animals.
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Moka is a more cautious tiger? He needed a day to adjust, but now he's jumping and swimming like a champ?
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Confiscated at the US/MX border from animal traffickers when he was just weeks old, LTB's youngest rescue "cub" is growing fast!?
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Moka will be celebrating his FIRST full year at LTB on Saturday, July 27โ will you come join the fun??
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Happy Caturday!? Are you ready to paw-ty??
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Paws up? if you want to spend the holiday #weekend poolside ?โโ๏ธ like rescued grizzlies Albert?+ Cherry ??
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Are you looking for a way to put your time + talent to good use?!??? Join our amazing team of volunteers. Volunteers are the heart and soul of our work here at the sanctuary, providing essential help in so many areas โ from checking-in visitors, to food prep, and even leading visits.
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Do you know someone who might be interested in volunteering??Please tag them in the comments. (Volunteer link in profile for more info)
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And please help us thank? all of the incredible volunteers - like Michele here - for everything they do to support the rescued animalsโค๏ธ
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If you'd like to watch this entire video - it's on the Volunteer page of the LTB website at lionstigersandbears.org
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What do you think Maddie is smiling about today???
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Bears smile much like humans do, for their own bear reasons based on what makes them feel happy.
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Originally purchased as a pet for a child, Maddie was nearly sold to a canned hunt and spent years confined to a small cage with no space to play or roam and never setting foot on green grass?or dirt.
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Now she spends her days exploring the multi-acre black bear habitat, playing with her bestie Liberty ?rolling in the grass, munching her favorite snack - romaine lettuce? - and cooling off in the pool.
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Maddie has many reasons to smile now thanks to you. Thank you for continuing to support LTB and putting this big bear grin on Maddie's sweet face.โค๏ธ???
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Does Bakari look ready to take on Monday?? #thatface ?
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Just add water ? and rescued white tiger Nola is a happy girl? what's the #1 ingredient in your purr-fect #Caturday?
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Will you help make Liberty's birthday? wish come true?
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She might be full-grown, but she'll always be our baby? This wild-born bear nearly lost her life as a young cub. Now she's celebrating a milestone birthday and she needs your help.
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Like many yearlings who leave their mothers in search of food + territory, Liberty learned to find food entering campgrounds as a young cub? When wild animals are no longer afraid to enter populated areas, they're considered habituated. Sadly this conflict often costs wild animals their lives.
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Fortunately, officials reached out to LTB for lifetime placement and with your support, this wild-born baby became the very first rescued bear at the sanctuary on July 4, 2009?? Liberty literally put the "bear" in Lions Tigers and Bearsโค๏ธ
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Thanks to you, Liberty has grown these past 10 years into the happy, healthy bear she is today. The black bear habitat is now home to five other rescued black bears. As the baby of the group, Liberty stirs up some trouble - sneaking into all the other bears bedrooms to snoop for goodies or look for a better napping spot? It's not uncommon to find her sleeping in Delilah's bedroom. Liberty has also forged a strong friendship with Maddie and the two can often be found playing and rolling in the grass together, sitting at the picnic table? or taking an afternoon dip in the pool.
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Liberty and all the black bears desperately need an additional culvert in their habitat. These giant cement culverts provide essential shade during the summer, cozy dens ? during the winter and an overall fun spot to nap, lounge and play. Your donation at any level will make Liberty's birthday wish come true!โค๏ธ
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Every day is a gift for Liberty. She's able to roam the green grass under blue skies in open space thanks to you? Please come celebrate her double-digit birthday at LTB on Friday, July 5 during the morning visit and please consider a donation at any level to support her lifetime care and new culvert!
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Landmark moments take on even greater meaning when they support the lifelong care of majestic rescued sanctuary animalsโจ
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Thank you ? Cy and Kim for celebrating your wedding with the animals. We wish you a lifetime of happiness.?? and thanks to @equinoxphoto for sharing these beautiful images?
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Do you know someone searching for a very special venue? Tag them in the comments. We can't wait to get started planning for your special day???
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Isn't this behind-the-scenes peek at a very content Tabu ? purr-fection?
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Tabu is our most sensitive rescued tigress. She doesn't love a lot of new people or noise. We respect her needs and keep her in quieter habitats where she can enjoy her personal space - which makes moments like these even more special to share.
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She's fierce, beautiful and loves her privacy โ is Tabu your spirit animal??
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?Volunteer Alyssa
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It's National Selfie Day โ the purr-fect time to remember that wild animals like ?? and ?s suffer for our #selfies. Legitimate sanctuaries and zoos never allow the public hands-on ?contact with ???
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Please don't pay? to hold, play or pose w/lions, tigers, bears, leopards or other big cats - it's always cruel for the animals. Swipe ? for a message from Bobbi.
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When we know better, we do better. Help raise awareness for the animals and show us your โค๏ธ #HumaneSelfie โค๏ธ
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Can you imagine waking up in your own luxurious retreat, to the roars of rescued lions and tigers?โจ
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White Oak Retreat is the beautiful overnight escape at the sanctuary, overlooking the gorgeous Linking Love habitat. All proceeds benefit the rescued animals.???
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Book your next getaway today (link in profile) and feel good knowing that your incredible adventure will not only feed your soul and spirit, but will provide lifesaving care to the rescued animals.?
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Do you know someone who loves animals? Please tag them in the comments to help share this info!?
Lions Tigers & Bears
Maverick's trying to turn Monday into Funday?? Is it working?
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?Keeper Rebekah
Lions Tigers & Bears
When you wake up early then realize, it's #Caturday? ? Rescued leopard Conga
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Hank needs your help. Of all the white tigers at LTB, Hank is the one with the most issues. You can see some just by looking at him.
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Tigers are supposed to be long and lean? โ but his blocky head and big shoulders don't match his short legs and stout body. He's clearly cross-eyed - as are all white tigers. These vision and body shape issues cause white tigers to suffer from poor mobility along with many other serious health conditions.
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When the keepers set out enrichment for Hank - it takes him much longer to find the goodies. He startles easily, often scared of his own tail. Due to the extensive inbreeding used to create white tigers โ many suffer from severe and even fatal health impairments.
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There are no legitimate accredited breeding programs for white tigers. White tigers are not a separate subspecies - they are inbred Bengal tigers and cross-bred tigers who've been bred to carry a rare recessive gene for white fur. White tigers have no conservation value - they're bred solely in captivity for exploitation.
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You can help protect tigers by never paying? to see white tigers at a facility that breeds, buys or exploits them.
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After a lifetime trapped in the prison-like conditions of a tiger breeding mill, Hank shows us he is enjoying life at LTB, happily chuffing to his keepers each day and always ready to chow down on some yummy treats โ even if it takes him a while to find themโค๏ธ
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When you donate to LTB - you support life-saving care for formerly exploited animals like Hank.
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It costs $10,000/year for basic food and care for one of our big cats, and $15/day for Hank's daily arthritis medication. Your donation today at any level provides critical care for Hank and all the rescued animals at LTB.
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Is it too early for catnip??Keeper Rebekah set up some Friday fun for the rescued bobcats...
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Who needs a nuzzle and a nap?
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Maverick would like to remind everyone โ he's a tiger?
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The Tetens Family surprised dad, Steve with an early Father's Day present ? - a visit to LTB and an opportunity to feed one of the animals yesterday. Swipe ?to see which animal he chose ???
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LTB's Feed a Wild One and Behind the Scenes encounters are a gift? for everyone involved. Strict safety measures keep everyone protected - while providing an opportunity to encounter amazing rescued animals in a way that genuinely supports critical lifesaving careโค๏ธ
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Participation is always optional for the animals who are fed a portion of their carefully measured daily diet.
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Big tiger chuffs of thanks? to the Tetens for celebrating their dad while supporting all the rescued animals. And Happy early Father's Day to Steve + dads everywhere!
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Do you know a father who would enjoy a visit to LTB????
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Lions Tigers & Bears
This is pretty much Louie's whole day?? Do you know anyone who sleeps as much as a lion?
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On a scale from 1? toโ 10? how awesome are happy munching bear noises?
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Awesome Blossom is one of the oldest bears at LTB. She and Delilah were the last remaining residents of a failed roadside zoo in Oklahoma.
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The owner could no longer afford to feed them and had resorted to feeding the bears candy from a nearby factory while making arrangements to sell them to a big game hunt ranch.
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Fortunately with your support LTB was able to rescue both black bears in 2011 and it's been all blue skies for them ever since.โค๏ธ
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Rescued lioness Zulu? had a small oral mass removed yesterday and received some additional dental work from Dr. Allison Woody, DVM, DAVDC and Dr. Ryan Sadler DVM, Diplomate ACZM.
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A former circus lion, Zulu has been plagued with dental and health issues since her rescue in 2017. Like many performance animals, Zulu's canine teeth were previously filed down - which you can see in the close-up photo.
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De-fanging and filing canine teeth is common in circus and performance animals - exposing animals to lifelong pain and recurring dental infections.? At 17, Zulu also suffers from liver + inflammatory bowel disease. Her weight fluctuates, but our veterinary team and keepers evaluate Zulu's needs each day to ensure this beautiful lioness has the best life possible.
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Zulu is doing great todayโ๏ธ and we are so thankful for your support.
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Zulu's life-saving care? wouldn't be possible without you. The base cost for one veterinary procedure under anesthesia for one big cat is $1,200, one blood panel costs an average of $250 and pain medication for one animal for one day is $15.
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Your donation at any level is essential. Thank you for ensuring Zulu and all the rescued animals receive the lifesaving care they need.โค๏ธ
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Lions Tigers & Bears
Life was never easy for Zulu.? As a circus lion, she spent her days "on the road," confined to small spaces, exposed to loud noises, forceful "training" + with no access to the peace, quiet and space lions naturally crave. Like many performance lions, Zulu's canine teeth were filed down, exposing her roots to painful ongoing dental infections.
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Fortunately Zulu's life changed dramatically in 2017 when her trainer reached out to Lions Tigers & Bears seeking lifetime sanctuary for this aging lioness. โจ
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Zulu's teeth required immediate attention. Thanks to your support, she's now received extensive dental work on all of her canines. Like all of our rescued animals, she requires ongoing dental treatment. Zulu also has an oral mass that we continue to monitor.?
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At 17, Zulu suffers from liver disease + inflammatory bowel disease. Her weight fluctuates, but she is stable now, and our veterinary team and keepers evaluate Zulu's needs each day to ensure this beautiful lioness has the best life possible. She is thriving in her multi-acre habitat alongside her sister, Arusha and companion, Louie.โ๏ธ
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Your ticket to Wild in the Country this Saturday, May 18 provides lifesaving care for Zulu and all the rescued animals.??? The base cost for one veterinary procedure under anesthesia for one big cat is $1,200, one blood panel costs an average of $250 and pain medication for one animal for one day is $15.
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Costs like these add up, but so does your support.โค๏ธ
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Please buy your Wild in the Country ticket? today and make a difference for Zulu + other exotic animals in need, โ๏ธ(619) 659-8078 x4, link in profile.
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Can't make the event Saturday? Text WIC to 71760 and bid in the silent auction, which goes live Friday.
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Rescued grizzly bear? Albert โค๏ธs naps, snacks and finding a great stick for chewing.?
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It's the simple things that matter most ... Agree or disagree????
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?Volunteer Alyssa
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Louie has an announcement:
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โจWild in the Country is this Saturday 5/18โจ
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Your ticket ?purchase directly helps Louie? and all the rescued animals at LTB.? ticket prices increase tonight! Don't miss your chance to join us for this amazing day for the animalsโ๏ธ(619) 659-8078 x4 or linktree in profile. We're so excited @whitneycummings will be here to guest host, and @iticamilanes + @hautechileproductions. โ
Even if you can't attend, you can bid on the silent auction starting Friday. Text WIC to 71760 to get started. โ
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Have you ever heard Louie roar in person?
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This magnificent white lion lived as a performance animal for years, carted around in small travel containers and used for circuses, film work and live shows. This kind of life takes a toll on big cats, but thanks to your support, Louie now spends his days in peace, napping in the green grass under blue skies with room to roam and in the company of rescued lionesses, Arusha + Zulu.
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?Volunteer Alyssa
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Happy Mother's Day?
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We showered? our rescued mamas with some extra special enrichment. Used for breeding + exploited for years, Crystal had a rough life until her 2016 rescue - we're happy to celebrate her + show her some love? today and everyday. โ
How are you celebrating this Mothers Day??
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?+?Keeper Darby
Lions Tigers & Bears
Rescued Bengal-mix tiger Moka is ready to roll ?โโ๏ธ into the weekend w/bestie ? Nola. Who are you rolling with this Caturday?
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?Volunteer Alyssa
Lions Tigers & Bears
Are you coming to Wild in the Country in 10 days?
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Don't miss this incredible event that helps feed and care for the rescued animals all year longโค๏ธ
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Get your tickets today and save - before prices go up on May 11.
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Please tag some friends who love animals and fun! @whitneycummings will be here with all the sanctuary animals, great food, music + dancing. We also have some amazing auction items lined up - including Super Bowl tickets ? if you won tickets to the Big Game, who would you take with you?
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The rescued animals have many cute and silly moments - which we love to share!โค๏ธ but it's important to remember how powerful and dangerous captive wild animals truly are.
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Safety is at the core of everything we do at ??? and it's one of the reasons we advocate against private ownership of apex predators like big cats and bears.
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This week is Be Kind to Animals Week & it's a great time to reach out to your representatives and urge them to support HR 1380, the Big Cat Public Safety Act, link in profile.
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One way to show kindness for animals is by respecting and protecting them. No one needs a lion, tiger or bear as a backyard pet.
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Do you think Bakari helps prove that point?
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And please share in the comments if you have other suggestions about how to be kind to animals.
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Albert's? Friday vibe is ______________.
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?Keeper Darby
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Repost from @tabithalipkin with @fox5sandiego who came out to help feed the lions ? and talk out our big Wild in the Country event coming up on Saturday, May 18. Do you have your tickets yet? Have you ever fed Zulu or Louie? Were they this polite??
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Keeper Darby is feeding Louie some chicken along with his daily arthritis medication. Have you ever fed one of the rescued animals at LTB?โค๏ธ If you could pick one of the sanctuary animals to feed - who would it be????
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Golden hour at one of our black bear habitats โจ๐ป๐ Giving you a mini tour and look into what some of our bears our up to!
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How handsome is our king of the jungle Bakari!? ๐๐ฆ
Bakari wants to thank you for your donations, BTS visits, online shop orders, advocacy, and endless love. We appreciate you all so much! Without you our mission would not be possible. You help animals like him have a safe haven.
To get involved with Lions Tigers & Bears head to our website https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/
Lions Tigers & Bears
Meet Conga, our rescue leopard. Have you ever heard Conga's story? โ
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Conga had a rough start in life. She was a captive-bred pet who was abandoned by her previous owner at the age of five weeks. Fortunately, thanks to the support of our members, Lions Tigers & Bears was able to adopt her. Conga was moved into her new enclosure at the end of July, 2005, where she loves playing with her ball, and climbing on large rocks and logs. She has her own pool and waterfall and several hammocks to lounge in.
In February 2014, thanks to a very generous donor couple and cherished members of the Lions Tigers & Bears family, Conga received a new addition to her habitat - Conga's Run. This aerial skyway overlooks the McGrath Family Tiger Trails and allows Conga a bird's-eye-view of the action taking place at the sanctuary. Conga is clever, seemingly fearless, and has limitless energy. She loves to show off for our visitors, pulling off amazingly acrobatic moves with incredible grace.
Conga loves to have her caretakers squirt her with the hose on warm days. Looking into her gorgeous green eyes, you can see the sparkle of mischief, and her grin lets you know she is happy and appreciative of her lifetime home at Lions Tigers & Bears. Her favorite foods are beef bones and chicken.
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Interested in learning more about Conga, or potentially sponsoring her every day care? Head here: https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/our-animals/leopards/conga๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ป
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Who says you have to rush into the week? Slow-mo Sunday's are the best way to ride out the weekend. Take a lesson from Sugar Bear and double-tap if if you agree. ๐ป๐
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"Online videos from roadside zoo owners create the false impression that it's safe to play-fight with adult big cats. It's not." The "Big Cat Public Safety Act, a bill that aims to federally prohibit commercial breeding, public handling, and ownership of big cats as pets, could make a difference in curbing big cat ownership and backyard breeding in the U.S., protecting animals and people alike." Read the full article below of the terrible situation that roadside zoos put animals in and how they are the ones that suffer in the end.
To learn more about the Big Cat Public Safety Act, visit our Advocacy & Legislation page over at https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/advocacy-and-legislation
We encourage you to call and email your U.S. representative now and urge them to push for the passage of this crucial piece of legislation. If your representative is already a co-sponsor of the bill, please take the time to thank them for supporting it.๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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Splish splash Cherry Bomb's enjoying a bath today! ๐๐โ
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Do you know what the large hump on a Grizzly bear's shoulders is used for!? ๐โ
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It's actually a powerful muscle that helps power their forelimbs through their daily routine. Grizzly bears are mighty diggers - hence their long claws - so this mighty muscle helps them dig with ease in rough wilderness terrain.๐ป
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"When you lose one of your own it is beyond difficult, but it is a reminder of how blessed we are to have known him." ๐งก๐ฏ Maverick is loved and missed by so many.
This weekend we had a beautiful memorial for our staff and volunteers in his honor. Maverick, we will miss your friendly chuffs and curious, fun-loving spirit. Rest easy sweet boy. You are loved by so many. ๐งก๐๐ป
Lions Tigers & Bears
Dear Friends,
We have news that has devastated me and our family of keepers, staff, and volunteers.
We are full of sorrow to share that Maverick the tiger died yesterday.
A terrible accident occurred during daily care that allowed our tigers Maverick and Moka, who live separately, to come into contact with one another in the same habitat, and ultimately ended tragically in Maverick's death. Our veterinarian came immediately to assess both tigers, and Moka has a few scratches, but is otherwise fine. No staff was ever in danger, or harmed. This was a human error, and one we're so deeply heartbroken about.
The process of caring for a wild animal leaves no room for error. When caring for a 400+ pound apex predator, layered safety measures must be established, and this is exactly what we've implemented at our accredited sanctuary since our founding. Unfortunately, one of our safety measures was mistakenly missed, and because these magnificent, massive animals are wild, their reactions to their surroundingsโespecially new situationsโare unpredictable.
We regularly do safety trainings, including one on our emergency protocols just last weekend. These will be reviewed extensively this week as there can never be too much training when working with exotic animals. There is an inherent risk when keeping apex predators in captivity, and we would like nothing more than to see an end to this, but until then, and as long as our sanctuary is needed, we will continue to be there for these animals in need.
Maverick was rescued on April 20, 2014 at the estimated age of nine months. He was a victim of the exotic animal trade, born in captivity and purchased illegally by someone who did not have the proper licensing to own an exotic animal. California Fish & Wildlife seized Maverick and reached out to Lions Tigers & Bears to provide him with a lifetime home. We happily opened our sanctuary to the rambunctious young tiger, and over the years watched him grow into the happy-go-lucky tiger who settled into a fulfilled life at our sanctuaryโsplashing in his pool, rolling around in the lush, green grass, and enjoying feeding time with his keepers and visitors.
I remember the day I got the call from Fish & Wildlife asking me to come pick up a tiger that was being kept at a local animal shelter in Ventura County. It was Easter Sunday, and my husband Mark's birthday. We had just finished dinner and were watching Top Gun, and I got the call. We immediately dropped everything, loaded up the rescue hauler and headed north to retrieve the young tiger. Upon arrival, there he wasโa 65-pound, stalky tiger with a bubble gum pink nose, sitting frightened in the shelter. On the drive back to the sanctuary, we were thinking of a name, and Mark suggested "Maverick." Over the next six years, Maverick lived up to his name in full gloryโblossoming into the mighty, independent, and well-adjusted tiger who has left an indelible paw print on my heart, and I'm sure many of yours too.
During his time at Lions Tigers & Bears, Maverick spent time in his favorite habitat, Tiger Trails, greeting our guests, staff and volunteers as they entered the sanctuary. He might have even followed beside you as you walked in, a favorite pastime of his. He was quite playful and was known to jump in his pool and splash anyone nearby.
However, Maverick didn't always have an affinity for water. In fact, he was one of the only tigers I had ever come across in my 25+ years of experience that was afraid of water! When Maverick was first introduced into Tiger Trails, with its mighty waterfall and crystal-clear plunge pool, he was actually afraid. It took several introductions in the habitat before he would even get close to the water's edge. Finally, one hot summer day, after weeks of coaxing, Maverick dipped his paws into the cool pool for the first time and realizing how refreshing it wasโhe made the plunge. After that day, Maverick's hesitation was no more, and he splashed and swam to his heart's content.
That's what our sanctuary is all aboutโproviding the best possible environment for these captive animals who, although we know should be in the wild, would have no chance of survival, and have nowhere left to turn.
We will miss his rambunctious, energetic presence, but are so grateful for the years we had with our majestic, sweet Maverick.
Maverick, we will miss your friendly chuffs and curious, fun-loving spirit. Rest easy our sweet boy, run free, and keep on swimming.
Thank you all for your support - you have played a part in providing a quality life and care for Maverick. Please join us in honoring Maverick today by sharing a favorite memory below!
With gratitude,
Bobbi Brink
Founder & Director, Lions Tigers & Bears
To learn more about Maverick and his rescue story: lionstigersandbears.org/our-animals/tigers/maverick
If you wish to donate in Maverick's honor: bit.ly/SponsorLTB
Lions Tigers & Bears
Sunday's are for snacks, sleep, play, and repeat. Who else agrees?๐๐ค๐ป
Lions Tigers & Bears
Meatball has a forever home at Lions Tigers & Bears, but not every bear is that lucky. ๐
Meatball is a wild born California black bear, who was captured by California Department of Fish and Wildlife on August 29, 2012 after his third-strike meddling in the La Caรฑada Flintridge neighborhood northeast of Los Angeles.
The Department has a three strike rule for habituated bears - bears not afraid to enter areas of human habitation. They can be captured and relocated twice, and on the third strike, they must be euthanized, or in very rare cases, rehomed to a sanctuary.
We're so happy California Department of Fish & Wildlife made the compassionate decision to relocate Meatball rather than to euthanize him and that he can have a forever home at LTB.
Help more bears like Meatball have a happy ending and head here to learn how you can help: https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/take-action ๐๐ป
Lions Tigers & Bears
Netflix's "Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness," falls short of depicting the vicious cycle of breeding and animal suffering. Stop letting people like Jeff Lowe own tigers. Read the full article below by Lions Tigers & Bears founder, Bobbi Brink on the dangers of cub petting and roadside zoos.
Lions Tigers & Bears
We cannot believe this keeps happening over and over in our country. Who is it that suffers in the end? It's always the ANIMALS!
https://www.ktnv.com/13-investigates/jeff-lowe-of-tiger-king-accused-of-violating-stay-out-of-trouble-order?fbclid=IwAR2I5WZmeVoGMjNZ-Dnq38DCvhXnWWyFEczbC1vs5qcPOzHgo60jqYbdZT8
Lions Tigers & Bears
Some footage from our pumpkin bash last year! ๐ป๐ Who's excited for this SPOOK-tacular event?
Join us, October 31st for our annual Pumpkin Bash - a special twist on our regularly scheduled educational visits. Bring your family, wear your best costume, and come celebrate Halloween social distanced and with the animals of LTB. Head here: https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/our-events/pumpkin-bash to purchase your tickets.
Tag someone who would love this event! ๐๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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Jackie and Russell have made it to their forever home, met their new keepers, are settling in and now the LTB team is headed home! ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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๐Sound on for an update from the road. ๐ปJackie and Russell are doing great. The team is making good time and will be to the sanctuary in Texas by tomorrow. ๐พ
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Making good time and enjoying a beautiful sunset going through Tucson tonight. The bears, Jackie and Russell, are doing great!
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๐Sound On for this update from Bobbi Brink, Founder/Director of Lions Tigers & Bears. She is at Project Wildlife - Ramona, where two bears named Jackie and Russell, are being loaded into our animal transport hauler to make the 1,400 one-way journey to their new sanctuary home at Cleveland Armory Black Beauty Ranch in Texas. ๐พ
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Lions Tigers & Bears is ON THE ROAD AGAIN bright and early this morning to help more animals! Stay tuned to meet our precious cargo! ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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Many of you requested to see more BTS video of Conga! And it's easy to see why! ๐โ
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Throwback to this never before seen video of Conga enjoying golden hour with Bobbi.
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I spy with my eye, a tiger in a tree!๐ฑ๐ฏ Silly, Maverick!โ โ
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Did you know that there are only 8 hours left for our Wild ๐ Fall Fundraiser? Head to the link below to browse, bid, and buy the incredible items available & help raise critical funds for the daily care of our animals.โ
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Head here: https://e.givesmart.com/events/iBK/ to check it out! ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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We spy with our little eyes, someone in the tree! Can you guess who it is?!๐คฉ๐๐ฏ
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It's Moka and Nola coming at you! These two best friends are having a fun pool day this Friday! ๐ฏ๐ฆ Tag your BFF and never miss a beat with what's happening at Lions Tigers & Bears by signing up for our newsletter! Head to
http://bit.ly/LTB-sign-up and make sure you keep a lookout on your inbox!๐
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Hank is excited for the first day of Fall!๐ How cute is he!? ๐๐ฏ Tag a friend below and brighten up their day with this adorable video!
๐ป Ready to connect with Hank at your next online meeting? Book a virtual visit today for your next virtual event, birthday, or meeting! Head to https://bit.ly/wildmeetngreetLTB to learn more!โจ
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Majestic Maverick living his best life. โจ๐ฏโ
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However, living the good life is not the reality for an estimated 5,000 tigers that are being held in captivity right now in the US.
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The majority of these captive tigers are privately owned, living in people's backyards, in roadside zoos, or breeding facilities. โ
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Please remember that exotic animals are not pets and should never be exploited, bred, or held in captivity. โ
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Lions Tigers & Bears is a no breed, no contact sanctuary that is dedicated to rescuing and a providing a safe haven for abused and abandoned exotic animals.
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Share this message, or tag a friend below to help us raise awareness today! ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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Your BTS look at the animals is back this Thursday! Here's a look at what Maverick is doing today! Make sure you keep watching until the very end. ๐๐ฏ
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Having a BEARY rough day? Nothing a sweet video of Cherry Bomb enjoying her snacks in the pool can't fix. ๐ป๐
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Meatball soaking up every last bit of sweet summertime! โ๏ธ๐ปโ
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As we roll into Fall here are some things we want to remind you about! ๐๐ผโ
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1๏ธโฃ We are open for visits! Please click https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/visit-us to book your visit to come see Meatball and all our animals in person this Fall. โ
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2๏ธโฃ Did you know we have virtual meet n' greets?! Invite a big cat or bear to your family gathering, virtual birthday, Zoom office meeting, or virtual event. It's sure to be a huge hit! Head to https://bit.ly/wildmeetngreetLTB for more details.
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A BTS look at what our lions are up to this Sunday! Looks like it's a cat nap kind of day and things are getting back to normal here around the ranch, after a week dealing with the Valley Fire. ๐ฆ๐คโ
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Speaking of BTS... Did you know we offer exclusive behind the scenes visits of the sanctuary? โ
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During your Exclusive "Behind the Scenes" Experience you and a guest will be guided around the sanctuary grounds to meet and help feed our big cats and bears while learning about their rescue stories. โ
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This is an incredible and our most intimate opportunity to truly understand what it takes to care for these special animals. โ
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You can head to https://www.lionstigersandbears.org/visit-us to book your BTS visit today! ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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Shadow happy to be home! Yesterday was a good day!
Fire season is a scary time of year for us - and this is just the beginning - but being prepared is critical to ensuring the safety of our animals. We learned a lot from having to deal with this fire, and we will continue to prepare for the future, and sincerely appreciate everyone's support along the way. ๐๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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Miss Kitty arriving back to her habitat! Happy day! ๐
If you haven't heard already, on Friday, September 11, we received the all clear from authorities - stating the fire was now 39% contained was no longer an imminent threat to our sanctuary. It was now safe once again to move the animals back into their habitats and to get back into a daily routine.
A HUGE thank you to our first responders who have put their lives on the line fighting the Valley Fire head on all week to protect our community. And a big thank you to all of YOU who supported us from near and far to ensure the safety and care of the animals. Our hearts go out to our community of Alpine and those neighbors who experienced devastating loss during this fire - #AlpineStrong.
Lions Tigers & Bears
On Friday, September 11, we received the all clear from authorities - stating the fire was now 39% contained was no longer an imminent threat to our sanctuary. It was now safe once again to move the animals back into their habitats and to get back into a daily routine.
Here is Crystal arriving back to her habitat! ๐
A HUGE thank you to our first responders who have put their lives on the line fighting the Valley Fire head on all week to protect our community. And a big thank you to all of YOU who supported us from near and far to ensure the safety and care of the animals. Our hearts go out to our community of Alpine and those neighbors who experienced devastating loss during this fire - #AlpineStrong.
Lions Tigers & Bears
๐๐ฝGood news from the ranch! After a week of being on lockdown and sheltering in place, we've received the "all clear" from authorities regarding the Valley Fire. The animals are now being transferred back into their habitats and we are working on getting back to our normal routine here around sanctuary.
A HUGE thank you to our first responders who have put their lives on the line fighting this fire head on all week to protect our community and a big thank you to all of YOU who have supported us from near and far to ensure the safety and care of the animals.
Lions Tigers & Bears
Hi everyone! Bobbi here with another fire update. All the animals are safe! ๐๐ฝ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
I want to personally thank everyone for your outpouring of support and donations over the past 24 hours. We have the most amazing sanctuary family - and you are proof of that. We are continuing to adhere to our emergency response plan. Some of the animals have been moved off site and we are loading the big cats and bears as an extra pre-caution in case an evacuation becomes necessary.
Watch the video update to learn more about what we're doing to keep the animals safe from the Valley Fire.
Lions Tigers & Bears
Hi everyone! Bobbi here with another fire update. All the animals are safe! ๐๐ฝ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
I want to personally thank everyone for your outpouring of support and donations over the past 24 hours. We have the most amazing sanctuary family - and you are proof of that. We are continuing to adhere to our emergency response plan. Some of the animals have been moved off site and we are loading the big cats and bears as an extra pre-caution in case an evacuation becomes necessary.
Watch the video update to learn more about what we're doing to keep the animals safe from the Valley Fire.
Lions Tigers & Bears
Fire update from Bobbi! Thank you again for your messages and support. We'll continue to keep you posted. ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
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If you need Maddie this Labor Day Weekend, you know where to find her! Practicing social distancing and just relaxing by the pool are the only things on her agenda.๐ป๐๐
What's on yours? Share with us below!๐๐ป
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How handsome is our king of the jungle Bakari!? ๐๐ฆ Did you know that after tigers lions are the biggest cat in the world? Male lions can grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh up to 550 pounds. ๐โ
#Lion #RescueLion #ExoticRescueAnimals #LionsTig
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Meet Conga, our rescue leopard. Have you ever heard Cona's story? โ
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Interested in learning more about Conga, or potentially sponsoring her every day care? Head helionstigersandbears.org/our-animals/leโฆFsmn ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ป
#BigCatRescue #
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Cherry Bomb enjoying her bath today! ๐๐๐ป
#GrizzlyBear #BearRescue #CuteAnimals #Ani
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Footage from our pumpkin bash last year!
#spookyszn #animalsanctuary #halloween #october
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There's nothing better than slow Sunday mornings!.
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We spy with our little eye, someone in the tree! Can you guess who it is?!๐คฉ๐๐ฏ
#tigers #bigcats #big
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The two best friends are having a fun pool day this Friday! ๐ฏ๐ฆ
Never miss a beat with what's happening at Lions Tigers & Bears by signing up for our newsletter! Heabit.ly/LTB-sign-upjoxi47 & make sure you keep a lookout on your inbox!๐
#fridayfunday #fridaymoo
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Hank is excited for the first day of Fall!๐ ๐๐ฏ
Ready to connect with Hank at your next online meeting? Book a virtual visit today for your next virtual event, birthday, or meeting!bit.ly/wildmeetngreetโฆSuJETy2Bs to learn more!โจ
#virtualmeetings #anim
Lions Tigers & Bears
Majestic Maverick living his best lifeโจ๐ฏโ But that's not the case for nearly 5,000 captive tigers being kept in the U.S. a
Please remember that exotic animals are not pets and should never be exploited, bred, or held in capti
Lions Tigers & Bears
Your BTS look at the animals is back this Thursday! Here's a look at what Maverick is doing today! Make sure you keep watching until the very end. ๐๐ฏ
#tigers #exot
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Having a BEARY rough day? Nothing a sweet video of Cherry Bomb in enjoying her snacks in the pool can't fix. ๐ป๐
#blackbears #bears #wednes
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Meatball soaking up every last bit of sweet summertime! โ๏ธ๐ปโ
#blackbear #swimmingbears #bears #s
Lions Tigers & Bears
I spy with my eye, a tiger in a tree!๐ฑ๐ฏ Silly, Maverick!
Did you know that the sharp, retractable tiger claws help them climb trees?
#bigcats #bigcatrescue #tigers #tig
Lions Tigers & Bears
If you need Maddie this Labor Day Weekend, you know where to find her! Practicing social distancing and just relaxing by the pool are the only things on her agenda.๐ป๐๐
What's on yours? Share with us below!๐๐ป
#laabordayweekend #longweekendvibes #longweekend #bl
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What's more magical than golden hour? Golden hour with Conga! ๐โจ๐ซ โฃโ
Invite a Lion Tiger or Bear to your next gathelionstigersandbears.org/virtual-meet-nโฆ.co/GBlccZWli2 to book your Virtual Meet'n Greet today! ๐ป๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ปโฃโ
#mee
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Another day in the life of Bakari. Just a little mid-day cat nap!๐ฆ๐ค
Did you know that male lions can sleep anywhere from 18-20 hours a day?!๐ฑ
#lionstigersandbears #catnap #wedne
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Has Clarence spotted a new month?!๐ป September is right around the corner! Make it a memorable summer with a visit to Lions Tigers & Bears!
Head lionstigersandbears.org/visit-usblO to learn more and to book your visit today. We can't wait to see you!โ๏ธ
#thingstodoinsandiego #
Lions Tigers & Bears
August 29th marks 8 years since Meatball the black bear first arrived to our sanctuary.๐ป
In honor of Meatball's 8th year, we would like to raise $8,000 to help provide enriching daily care for Meatball! Head bit.ly/LTBmeatball9eO to help us reach our goal by Sund
Lions Tigers & Bears
Your favorite duo is back and they're having some fun in the sun! ๐ฏโ๏ธ
#tigers #bigcatrescue #lionstigersandbears #bigcats #exo
Lions Tigers & Bears
Rebecca is in our gift shop!๐๏ธ We not only have a gift shop available onsite, but we are also online๐ปlionstigersandbears.org/shopsgXr8GzEz
#onlineshopping #animalsanctuary #on
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Thursday Plans? Swim, eat, play, sleep, & repeat!๐ฏ๐ฆ
#tigers #bigcat #bigcat
Lions Tigers & Bears
"Just going to sit here and enjoy my Sunday snack alone"๐ป๐
Want to see the beautiful animals and learn more about them in person? We are open for Behind The Scenes visits! Learn molionstigersandbears.org/visit-uskSDblO
#sandiego #thingstodoinsandiego #animalsan
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Fun in the sun with Meatball!๐ปโ๏ธ
We've had record high heats at Lions Tigers & Bears!๐ฅต๐ก๏ธ๐ฅ
Bears are smart and know how to beat the heat - they get nice and cool in the water for about 15-20 mins, head to the cave or their bedrooms and sleep off the heat!
#s
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It's snack-time at Lions Tigers & Bears!๐ป๐
Himalayan black bears are omnivores and will eat just about anything! In the wild, their diet consists of acorns, nuts, fruit, honey, roots, and various insects such as termites and beetle larvae!
#animalsanctuary #blac
