Mia initially served as the household pet of a man in Wyoming. She lived in his house, which required him to make various lifestyle adjustments to accommodate her. Vacations became a rarity, as the presence of Mia was associated with shredded curtains, scratched and clawed furniture, and pervasive scent markings throughout the entire house. Socializing and having guests over was challenging, as Mia had a tendency to bite anyone who came into her space.
Mia's situation serves as a clear reminder of why exotic animals are not suited to being kept as pets. Her owner, despite his affection for her, recognized the need for change and expressed to Bobbi that Wyoming should cease issuing permits that allow wild animals to be kept as pets. This issue aligns with the efforts of Lions Tigers & Bears, who have been actively working to advocate for legislation prohibiting the private ownership of wild animals.
When Mia's owner was no longer able to care for her, he reached out to LTB to find her a new home. Upon her arrival at Lions Tigers & Bears, Mia had to adapt to a very different life, transitioning to an outside habitat and becoming acquainted with other bobcats, an opportunity she had never had before.
Life as a Household Pet (2002-2011):
Mia was born on July 28, 2002, and spent the first nine years of her life as a household pet in Wyoming. Her owner made significant sacrifices to accommodate her, dealing with the challenges of living with a wild animal—shredded furniture, scent markings, and her aggressive tendencies toward visitors.
Owner's Realization and Advocacy (2011):
Despite his love for Mia, her owner recognized the unsuitability of keeping a wild animal as a pet. He contacted Bobbi Brink and Lions Tigers & Bears, not only to rehome Mia but also to express his belief that Wyoming should stop issuing permits allowing wild animals to be kept as pets. His story became a part of LTB’s advocacy efforts to end the private ownership of wild animals.
Rescue and Relocation to Lions Tigers & Bears (November 9, 2011):
After nine years in captivity, Mia was rescued by Lions Tigers & Bears. This marked a turning point in her life as she transitioned to a more natural environment in a state-of-the-art habitat designed for bobcats.
Adapting to a New Life and Community:
For the first time, Mia was able to live outside, explore a spacious habitat, and interact with other bobcats, something she had never experienced before. Her journey serves as a powerful testament to the importance of providing wild animals with a proper environment where they can thrive.
