Meet Kallie: Overcoming All Odds

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.