(The Post News)– On Monday, 03 March, the world observed World Wildlife Day, and the international animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS has highlighted its ongoing work to protect rescued big cats and other endangered animals. FOUR PAWS operates 13 wild animal sanctuaries internationally. Its LIONSROCK Big CT Sanctuary in the Free State remains a safe place for more than 100 rescued lions, tigers, and leopards.
Public Relations Officer of FOUR PAWS, Deidré Daniel, says that LIONSROCK provides a safe and species-appropriate home for big cats rescued from private captivity, circuses, zoos, and conflict zones. LIONSROCK covers 1,250 hectares and offers a natural habitat where animals can recover from past trauma while receiving veterinary care and enrichment. Daniels says the welfare of these animals is their top priority. Moreover, their team ensures the rescued big cats receive top-tier medical attention, nutritious food, and ample space to roam freely.
Veterinary teams at LIONSROCK performed critical dental procedures on several lionesses recently. Among them, a lion, Lubumbashi, and lionesses Zendaya, Dandi, and Sheeba were suffering from a severe tooth fracture. Root canal treatments and extractions were imperative in order to relieve pain and prevent any more complications.
FOUR PAWS veterinarians perform vital medical procedures, including sterilising seven lionesses at Jordan’s Al Ma’wa wildlife sanctuary. The veterinary examinations were carried out by Dr. Amir Khalil and Dr. Marina Ivanova from FOUR PAWS and Dr. Frank Göritz from the Leibniz Institute of Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW). Dr. Khalil says that seven war-torn lionesses recover after life-saving surgeries by Al Ma’wa’s dedicated team and veterinarian.
Although international efforts like this are commendable, Daniels had stressed the importance of local sanctuaries like LIONSROCK in the preservation of South Africa’s wildlife heritage. Daniela further explains how every cat that finds refuge at LIONSROCK is a representation against exploitation and that World Wildlife Day is a reminder that these animals deserve protection and are committed to ensuring they live out their days in dignity.
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