At Lions Tigers & Bears, every rescue comes with a unique story of struggle and triumph, and Kallie the tiger’s
journey is nothing short of miraculous. Kallie is one of four big cats that found a new home with us after being
rescued from a defunct drive-thru roadside zoo in Oklahoma. Her past is a harrowing testament to the
resilience of these magnificent animals and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to give them a second
chance at life.
A Life of Suffering and Isolation
Kallie’s early years were marked by pain and isolation. She was terribly declawed, a cruel practice that left her
with permanent damage and suffering from metabolic bone disease. For years, she was housed alone in a
dilapidated enclosure, her world confined to a small, neglected space. Eventually, she was abandoned in a
field, scared and timid, left to fend for herself.
A Painful Journey to Healing
When Kallie arrived at our sanctuary, it was clear she needed immediate medical attention. She had fractured
her left leg, requiring surgery where two steel plates were inserted into her radius and ulna. Despite the
surgery, Kallie developed an antibiotic-resistant infection, and her caretakers faced a heart-wrenching
decision. The only options were euthanasia or amputation. After careful consideration, our founder Bobbi
made the call to move forward with the amputation, hoping to give Kallie a pain-free life.
A New Beginning
Almost immediately after the amputation, Kallie’s pain subsided significantly. Her journey to recovery began in
earnest, supported by our dedicated team of keepers and veterinary staff. Her habitat was specially adjusted
to include railings and soft grass, helping her navigate her new life on three legs.
Kallie still faces challenges ahead. She has two more surgical procedures to endure: she needs to be spayed,
and repairs must be made to her remaining front leg, still bearing the scars of her horrific declawing. But
Kallie’s spirit remains unbroken. Every day, she shows us her incredible strength and resilience, adapting to her
new circumstances with grace and courage.
