THE BIG CAT TIMES

Cat Chat is a LIVE, interactive show on WildAnimalTelevision.com that airs every Wednesday at noon (EST). You can call in to interact live with the producer, David Stanton and Big Cat Rescue CEO Carole Baskin. It is a fun and informal hour of chatting about cats of all kinds. WildAnimalTelevision.com

MOST DARING RESCUE EVER - SIX WILD CATS NOW CALL BIG CAT RESCUE HOME A breeder who owned nine exotic cats rented property from his son-in-law in the small town of Atchison, Kansas. When the man separated from his wife, he stopped paying rent and rarely came around to feed or provide water for the cats. Some cats died during the following months. Worried for the safety of the remaining animals the son-in-law reported the abandoned cats to authorities. The Atchison County Sheriff’s Office seized one tiger, two cougars, three bobcats, two lynx, a serval and two skunks under the state’s Dangerous Regulated Animals Act and the animal cruelty code. They then contacted the Humane Society of the United States and the Kansas City Zoo for assistance with caring for and placing the animals in reputable facilities. Big Cat Rescue stepped in to provide homes for six of the cats including the two Canada lynx, three bobcats, and one serval. The rest of the cats and the skunks were sent to other accredited sanctuaries.

Big Cat Rescuers Jamie Veronica, Gale Ingham, Barbara Frank and veterinarian Dr. Boorstein made the non-stop 22-hour road trip to Kansas City, Missouri. After a good night’s sleep, they joined nearly a dozen Humane Society staff, a half dozen deputies and four staff from the Kansas City Zoo. Every one worked together in team effort to remove all of the animals from the property swiftly and safely.

During the rescue operation the owner of the cats arrived. He was very angry his cats were being seized and screamed at the deputies. The deputies told him to leave the scene and he did. He continued to yell at the deputies even as he drove away. Approximately an hour later the man returned and was quite belligerent. In order to diffuse the situation, he was subdued and handcuffed. Deputies found a meth pipe in the man’s pocket and a rifle in the back of his car. He was arrested and taken to jail where he eventually agreed to surrender the cats. Photos by Jamie Veronica unless noted. Meanwhile rescuers moved from one cat to the next, capturing, examining, and loading each into transport crates. After nearly four and a half hours all of the cats were loaded up into transport trailers and the various groups parted ways. Big Cat Rescuers then began the long trip back to the sanctuary where they were greeted by a dozen volunteers, interns, and staff

members as well as the media.

PERMIT NO. 3084 NO. PERMIT

:Change Service Requested Service :Change

TAMPA, FLA. TAMPA, Each cat was unloaded and released Loading up the Kansas cats into the newly outfitted Big Cat Tampa, FL 33625 FL Tampa,

U.S. POSTAGE PAID POSTAGE U.S. Rescue trailer complete with air conditioning, temperature

12802 Easy Street Easy 12802 into their new enclosures. The Canada NONPROFIT ORG. NONPROFIT Big Cat Rescue Cat Big sensors, and video cameras linked to monitors in the truck. lynx were the first to explore their new

The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - www.BigCatRescue.org - WATCH US AT BIGCATTV.COM 1 surroundings. The rest of the cats waited Big Cat Rescue the transport crate. age is unknown. He was purchased along loaded into a crate. Gilligan seems for the cloak of darkness. After just a few Mary Ann Big Cat Rescuers with Skipper at an auction. Gilligan had absolutely blissful in his new enclosure. days all of the cats settled into their new gave her space, the tiniest cage measuring 5’ x 7’. It was In his first days he constantly sniffed all home and seemed to be quite pleased with turned the crate also the dirtiest. The mud floor was not around soaking their accommodations. towards her and mud, but feces covered with a sprinkling in the fresh air. she leaped inside. of straw. It appeared as though Gilligan The four year old female serval, was The very next day had tried to keep much of his waste Skipper, a male bottle raised from a kitten. She did not after her arrival confined to one area on top of his plastic Canada lynx, is have a name. The other cats had names of Mary Ann warmed up to her keepers dog house. He had perched atop the house also of unknown characters from the popular 60’s television chirping and bouncing happily to the side day after day to defecate. The large pile of age. He had show Gilligan’s Island, so in keeping with of the enclosure to greet her visitors. feces cascaded out of the side of his cage. the largest cage the theme she was named Ginger. Ginger The dog house was too small for Gilligan measuring about was kept in a cage about 9’ x 12’. On one Mr. Howell, a five year old male bobcat, to fit in leaving him no where to escape 5’ x 30’. He had Big Cat Rescue side of her two cougars were housed and was kept with a female bobcat named the rain and snow. He was forced to sleep a small plastic Skipper on the other was Lovey. He is declawed on all four paws in the open surrounded by filth. Because dog house and Big Cat Rescue an empty cage. Ginger and his left ear is folded over most likely Gilligan’s cage was so small there was a plastic shelf. A large rabbit carcass lay That empty the result of a past injury. He and Lovey rotting in the corner of his cage and the Kansas - Gilligan’s tiny & dirty cage cage housed shared a cramped cage and a single dog entire cage was just as dirty as the others, another serval house to escape the weather. Mr. Howell feces lying everywhere and urine soaked who died a few was intact and Lovey was not spayed. straw. Skipper was the first of the Kansas months before So the two of them were separated upon cats to begin exploring his new home at the rescue. their arrival at Big Cat Rescue until Big Cat Rescue. He cautiously stepped Sadly, that serval had become wedged Lovey could be spayed. Mr. Howell into his enclosure as he looked back over in between the door panels of the cage has a strange coat pattern and coloring, his shoulder at his rescuers. Skipper along and died. The dead serval was left in the with his fellow refugees have settled in to cage for weeks before it was removed and their new digs. dumped in an open pit just a few feet from not enough room Big Cat Rescue Ginger’s cage. Despite living next door to for Big Cat Gilligan two large intimidating cats, witnessing the Kansas - Mr. Howell Rescuers to enter death of her serval neighbor, and living in peaks out of dog house, Kansas - it with nets and Lovey hides behind him Examining a crate. With Gilligan no other options so strange it is believed that he may be he was sedated, some sort of bobcat wildcat hybrid. He examined, and Kansas - Ginger’s cage and loves his large rock cave and spends trash pit filled with dead animals most of his time on top of this mountain FEDERAL BILL TO BAN BREEDING AND POSSESSION observing his surroundings. He also loves OF BIG CATS REINTRODUCED - WE NEED YOUR HELP spice bag enrichment! Big Cat Rescuers were in awe to see his reaction to the first Many of our readers will recall that in March 2012 Big Cat Rescue and other animal enrichment he has probably ever received. welfare groups introduced the federal Big Cats and Public Safety Protection Act Mr. Howell rolled around on the ground, in the House of Representatives. Even though this was introduced late in the complete filth, Ginger was surprisingly rubbing his face two year session and by September the election distracted legislators, thanks to calm during her capture and exam. Since on the bag, and the thousands of calls and emails from so many of you to your Representatives her arrival she has really opened up and is pawing at the fun asking them to co-sponsor the bill, we ended the session with 60 co-sponsors! quite the chatty kitty! She prances around new toy. her enclosure, rolls in the tall grasses, and Now we are in a new two year session and are getting an early start this time, eagerly awaits dinner each evening. Lovey a five year with the bill renumbered as HR 1998 having been reintroduced on a bi-partisan Big Cat Rescue old female bobcat basis on May 15, 2013 by Rep. Buck McKeon (RCA) and Rep. Loretta Sanchez Mr. Howell Mary Ann, a four year old female bobcat, was housed with (D-CA). was kept in a cage about 5’ x 10’. Feces Mr. Howell. She is also declawed on WE NEED YOUR HELP to build co-sponsor momentum again. The most and meat scraps had piled up for months. all four paws. Shortly after her arrival effective thing you can do is both call and email your Representative. For our She had a small plastic dog house as Lovey was spayed and during her vet “tips” sheet about calling your Representative, or other questions about the bill, shelter from the rain and snow. Inside it visit a rotten upper canine was extracted. please email [email protected]. To read more about the bill was filled with small animal carcasses. She is currently and send an email just go to www.BigCatBan.com. The site will let you easily Mary Ann was the second cat at the Kansas recovering in our locate your Representative by your zip code. To maximize the effectiveness of property to be Cat Hospital, after your email, please take just a moment to alter the subject line and a portion of captured. After which she will be the email template you will see at the website. being netted and reunited with Mr. examined in her Howell. Lovey is Regulation of how big cats are treated simply cannot work. Despite the Lovey in transport enclosure Mary the shyest of the regulations that are supposed to insure humane treatment, big cats are being Ann managed Kansas cats. She spent her first several mistreated daily and rescue after rescue from absolutely horrible conditions to wiggle free days hiding in her large cave den and cannot solve the problem. The only solution is to stop the rampant breeding from the net slinking around at night. and private possession. If you have time to do only ONE THING this year for before she could Kansas - Mary Ann’s big cats, please make it calling and emailing your Representative and asking be transferred to cramped cage Gilligan is a male Canada lynx and his them to co-sponsor HR 1998!

2 The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - [email protected] - 813.920.4130 - Follow us at http://twitter.com/BigCatRescue ROCK TO THE RESCUE bobcat duo released together

A ROARING time was enjoyed by all as Big Cat Rescue volunteers teamed up with Ms. Hannah Shaw, Director of “Rock to the Rescue” for an exciting Big Cat fundraising/public awareness event that took place as part of the Funshine Music Festival held at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, Fl. “Rock to the Rescue” is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by classic rock band Styx, whose mission is to build strong, healthy communities through the support of grassroots organizations across the country.

Big Cat Rescue volunteers helped set a new “Rock to the Rescue” fundraising record of $11,000.00+, with 25% ($2700.00+) donated in support of the magnificent creatures that call the sanctuary home, and the remaining 75% donated in support of the victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy. We are so pleased to share with you that Gator and Copter, two male Florida bobcats, have Rock to the Rescue is a project founded on the been released back into the wild. The bobcat principle that our communities are stronger when duo came to Big Cat Rescue in the summer we work together in mutual aid. Having played over 1500 shows in the last 14 years, Styx has of last year, both orphaned, riddled with been strongly connected with communities across the country. At each tour date, Rock to the parasites, and emaciated. After several months Rescue partners with a local group to give back to the community through outreach, fundraising, of rehabilitation and bonding the two were and volunteer support. What makes Rock to the Rescue so unique is that they work on a grassroots transported to a release site encompassing level with small groups, giving real support to real individuals who are creating positive changes 5,000 acres of natural habitat. Big Cat Rescuers in their communities. Rock to the Rescue is building initiatives in the areas of music education, set the wooden crates side by side and on the animal welfare, and health and well-being. count of 3 opened the doors releasing the duo. Gator immediately burst from the crate and For additional information, visit: http://rocktotherescue.net/ bounded across a large field before taking cover in the forest where he waited for Copter. FWC ADAPTS TO pro bono help of two passionately cat loving CHANGING TECHNOLOGY attorneys, David Ganje and Eric Husby. The Copter on the other hand was dialog with FWC staff and counsel was a much more timid and took nearly mixture of brainstorming together on both Changes in technology like the now pervasive 45 minutes to get up the courage the legal and practical aspects of the issue, use of social networking on the Internet are to leave the dark confines of the including how to balance the concerns on drastically changing how people communicate crate. Although very interested which the rule was originally based against the and how they expect to receive information. in the surroundings just past the benefits of creating more public interest and One challenge for regulators is how to adapt opening of the crate, Copter was knowledge about rehab work that is now made their rules to these dramatic changes. reluctant to take that first step out possible by the widespread use of images and into the light. His crate was moved video on social networking platforms. An important and incredibly satisfying portion closer to the forest and near a large pile of dead branches. He finally Particularly in the last few months FWC of what we do, here at Big Cat Rescue, is taking bolted towards freedom and took cover in the thicket. moved on this issue with speed that is difficult in orphaned and/or injured native bobcats and to accomplish in the administrative world of a nursing them back to health, teaching them to We hope that Gator and Copter will government agency and came up with a solution hunt, and returning them to the wild. A rule stay together for a little while until they that we feel addresses both the concerns and about not exhibiting rehab animals that was have both settled into their new home. the needs in a fabulous way. They established established way before the Internet existed These animals belong in the wild and a separate permit that rehabbers can apply for prohibited publishing photos or videos of the setting them free is one of the most that grants permission to display images and rehab animals. The unintended consequence satisfying perks of a Big Cat Rescuer! video of rehab animals. To protect the animals, was that, as people increasingly rely on visual the permit is conditional on taking photographs Above: President Jamie Veronica and presentation as the way they want to receive Volunteer Veterinarian Dr. Boorstein release and video in a manner that does not create harm information (versus reading the written Gator & Copter as interns & staff observe; or stress to the animal or in any way impedes word), not being able to show our rehab work Gator & Copter when they first arrived the rehabilitation of the animal. at Big Cat Rescue; Gator & Copter in the visually was increasingly limiting the ability rehab enclosure, running towards freedom; of ourselves and other rehabbers to educate the Big Cat Rescuers after the release. Big Cat Rescue is pleased to be the first public about the importance of rehab work in recipient of this permit and would like to preserving Florida’s wildlife and the need for enthusiastically thank FWC for what we feel us to live in harmony with our wild neighbors, was a classic example of how a government particularly as we continue to impact their agency and a stakeholder can work together to habitat and have more contact with them. address and adapt to issues created by a world where technology changes so rapidly and in Late last year we began an active dialog ways that rules or procedures established in a with staff and counsel at the Florida Wildlife prior era could not have predicted. Conservation Commission (FWC) about the impact this was having with the generous

The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - www.BigCatRescue.org - FACEBOOK.COM/BIGCATRESCUE - WATCH US AT BIGCATTV.COM 3 GReat Non-Profits Award SOLAR PROJECT COMPLETE, DONORS VISIT FATAL ATTRACTIONS TIGER TERROR If you love our Last issue we reported on work, then the completion of our second Animal Planet’s tell the world! solar panel project to reduce Fatal Attractions You have an our electricity cost and be is a show that opportunity to more “green.” At that time the focuses on human help us make project was not fully funded. obsessions with wild even more of Since then, long time supporter animals that can a difference in The Little Family Foundation become dangerous our community. and sometimes came through with the fatal. Check out Episode 6 of Season GreatNonprofits -- a review site like remaining funds needed and 3, Tiger Terror, to see Big Cat Rescue TripAdvisor -- is honoring highly reviewed all three major donors to this President explain the dangers of non profits with their 2013 Top-Rated Awards. project have visited and seen handling big cats such as tigers. Won’t you help us raise visibility for our work it. Pictured here are Arthur Preview link: by posting a review Little and Jann Leeming from of your experience The Little Family Foundation http://tinyurl.com/prsd5q4 with us? All reviews with Zabu the white tiger who Episode Synopsis: A showbiz couple will be visible to appears to be shouting her toured the world with their performing potential donors and thanks for their support, Shelly tigers, leading an intoxicating life of volunteers. Aubuchon, Stephen Miccio and Lena Spencer from TECO doing their final stardom, money and power, which inspection, and Rita Lowman, EVP from C1 Bank presenting their donation was cut brutally short when their co- It’s easy and only takes 3 minutes! check. Many thanks performer was killed by their prized Go to http://tinyurl.com/q7zfed3 to all three of these white tiger. to get started! generous supporters! And that’s not the end of their story...

KIDS 4 KATS Tigers for Tigers

Bailey Desjardins, a 5th grader in Pinellas County, wanted to help Big Cat Rescue as part of a school project. We sent her the specs for platforms that our cats love to lounge on, and Bailey and her parents made a great platform for one of our bobcats to enjoy! Big Cat Rescue was pleased to get a visit and a donation from Nicole Martinez, age 10, from Tigers For Tigers Frederick, Maryland. Nicole’s loves big cats Coalition (T4TCoalition. and Big Cat Rescue’s YouTube videos. For the org) was founded in 1997 last year and a half, Nicole had been saving her as a way of harnessing allowance and selling lemonade to donate towards the team spirit of colleges the care of her favorite cats, Nico and Canyon. with tiger mascots to Nicole’s generous donation totaled $114.05! Grrr- protect tigers. It eat job, Nicole! We hope you continue to love and help animals! has grown over Blake Kirby, a 4th grader at Cypress Woods the years and has Elementary in Pinellas County, was intrigued been inclusive of by big cat enrichment, and decided to do a any tiger mascotted spice drive for Big Cat Rescue as part of his school who wanted community service learning project. Blake to participate. This collected spices from family, friends, and year they held neighbors. Thanks so much, Blake! The their first National cats will really enjoy your great contribution! Summit at Clemson University and Wild Child Shares Birthday Wishes with asked a number of tiger experts, including the Big Cats! Jasper Perez, of Baltimore, turned 7 years old last Big Cat Rescue CEO and Founder Carole month. In lieu of gifts, she asked friends Baskin, to come talk to the students about and family to donate to Big Cat Rescue. the real steps they can take, right now, to She raised $555.29 for the cats. Way to protect tigers. Are you a student or alumni go, Jasper! The cats appreciate your of a tiger mascot school? generous donation and hope you had a Join the club: grrrr-eat birthday! http://tinyurl.com/ncujmyl

4 The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - [email protected] - 813.920.4130 - Follow us at http://twitter.com/BigCatRescue Lion on the menu issue with the commercial sale of spongiform encephalopathy caused Lions are not covered under exotic meats, lion and otherwise, is by “prions” — abnormal proteins that the federal Humane Methods of Sadly, lion has been added to the menu that the source of the animals, even if eat holes in the brains of infected Slaughter Act. This law requires that of yet another restaurant in our own legal, much less the conditions under humans and animals. animals be rendered unconscious or backyard, but it doesn’t stop which they are insensible to pain prior to slaughter. there. Lion meat is popping up slaughtered, is Once animals are skinned and Past investigations into the private on menus across the country. not monitored. slaughtered it is difficult, if not ownership of exotic animals, roadside The meat served is served as a Despite claims to impossible, to identify the species or zoos and traveling shows have novelty item for publicity. Many the contrary, lion origin of the meat. At least one lion revealed appalling conditions under of those whohave consumed meat production meat distributor has had a history of which captive exotic animals, including it state that it is not even very and sale largely problems, including poor sanitation lions, are commonly kept. Many states good. Describing the dish and selling meat from tigers have no laws governing the care and as overly chewy with a pork and labeled as “lion meat.” treatment of captive exotic animals. like flavor. So why then is lion According to documents meat becoming more and obtained through the Freedom Consumers, restaurant owners more popular? Because it is of Information Act, Czimer’s and policy-makers are all equally controversial. Game and Seafood in Homer responsible for putting a stop to this falls through Glen, IL was convicted in 2003 risky business by refusing to buy Unfortunately the media has driven the regulatory or sell lion meat and by pushing for the sale of this meat by playing up the cracks with neither the FDA and and passing stronger regulations controversy focusing more on asking nor USDA taking full responsibility and prohibitions on the possession, consumers if they would or would not for the process from start to finish. slaughter and sale of lions in the eat lion meat instead of investigating United States. the real question, “Where is this meat Lion meat sold as a by-product coming from?” The lion meat trade is of the trade in lions raised for a shady, under-regulated business public display or “hobby” may that places both not be raised with people and adequate attention animals at risk. to required antibiotic or other The African drug withdrawal times. of selling meat from federally protected lion is not an The FDA does not tigers and leopards. The owner e n d a n g e r e d regularly or pro actively admitted to purchasing the carcasses species, so it is conduct residue testing of 16 tigers, 4 lions and 2 mountain perfectly legal in exotic meat. In lions. They were skinned and sold as to raise and addition, there are no “lion meat” for a profit of more than butcher lions in regulations that prevent $38,000. Another plant, Eickman’s this country and feeding lions “specified Processing in Seward, IL, slaughtered sell their meat risk material” (SRM) as many as 20 lions between Dec. 6, for food. Exactly — brains, eyes, spinal 2009 and Jan. 2, 2010. Neither the where the lion cord and other organs USDA or the FDA were aware of the meat that does — that are prohibited in origin of the lions processed. Neither get sold here feed for other animals agency ever sent inspectors to the lion comes from is a raised for human suppliers’ facilities nor, astoundingly, bit of a mystery, consumption due to even asked who the original suppliers though. One big the risk of transmissible were.

PAINTING WITH A TWIST TEXAS RESIDENT ROUND UP To Protect Big Cats

Marvin and Leslie Gay opened the Are you a Texas resident? If so, please very first franchise of a wonderfully ask your Representative to support fun new concept. People who a ban on the private possession have never painted in their lives and exploitation of big cats. You can gather at their two area locations do this quickly and easily using our each week and create masterpieces automated service at the link below. by following the step by step This one small action could be the instructions of their charming and most important thing you do all year entertaining teachers. For a fund and may put an end to the needless raiser for Big Cat Rescue they abuse of big cats in your state. chose to paint a cougar. 76 people attended, some from their “regulars” and some of our supporters, including a group of “Skipaholics” in their Big Cat Rescue tees! Take action now: http://tinyurl.com/o3gp6f7 Champagne was served and provided liquid courage for the more timid participants. The end result was pretty amazing as you can see in the photo, and the evening raised The form will not accept a NON-Texas address. Above: Tiger carted around in a chainlink $1690, enough to feed a tiger for 2 months! Thanks to all who attended and to Leslie cage attached to a trailer that is driven town to town. This big cat is exploited on a daily and Marvin for their wonderful support! basis. You can put an end to this abuse by speaking out for the big cats today.

The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - www.BigCatRescue.org - FACEBOOK.COM/BIGCATRESCUE - WATCH US AT BIGCATTV.COM 5 The Big Cat Trading Post - GIFT GUIDE Proceeds from your gift purchases help take care of the big cats. Order these gift items using the order form on page 10 or visit BigCatRescue.biz to see hundreds of our gift items!. S & H within the US as well as tax has already been included in the prices listed here. You can also upgrade your shipping to Priority for just $3 for your entire order.

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The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - www.BigCatRescue.org - FACEBOOK.COM/BIGCATRESCUE - WATCH US AT BIGCATTV.COM 7 & Anne Harrison BIG CAT RESCUE SUPPORTERS $150 Marion Hellthaler $150 John & Susan Holt $800 Cathy McLean & Lisa Minich Donations received $150 Erik Jungk $650 Pamela Olson Koonts $300 David Nugent between January 1st $150 Heather Keller $650 Eugenia Van Bremen $300 Dave Zunac $150 Brenda R. Lang & March 31st $640 Carolyn Blackman $250 Vicky Cole $150 Alice & Vincent Luce $600 Steven Carter $250 Geraldine Delaney $150 Elizabeth McBroom $600 John R. McArthur $250 Paul Dorfman $150 Monique McGee $600 Joe Sokolosky $250 Wayne $150 Christin Moschenrose $505 Keith & Liz Ohrberg & Delphine Kosfeld $150 Michael Neblock $504 Emily Dubner $250 Barbara Lauterbach $150 Joan Nodwell $500 Rocky $250 Joseph J. Marotti Jr $150 Mikhail V. & Shelly Barbanica $250 Earl McDaniel Novgorodov $500 Edmund B. 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Moore $200 Jason Fiorito $107 Lee Braem $100 James Deakin & Michelle Laliberte $100 Joan $1,950 Sole Riley Marittimi $400 Don & Diane Stump $200 Fay Forman $107 Nicholas Cohen $100 Anthony Dembek $100 Brennan LaPlant & John Thalheimer $1,200 Michelle $350 Kirk & Aileen Davis $200 Roxane Gabriel $107 Janice Fischer $100 Kristofer Dewberry $100 Carole Lee $100 Richard & Scott Chamberlin $350 Candice Fielek $200 Harvey Galloway $107 Andrew $100 Rob Dolecki $100 Heidi Lepak & Jeanne Thompson $1,061 Whiskey Joe’s Bar $350 Rudy Ratnadurai $200 Leigh Gledhill & Johnna Freson $100 David Dunn $100 Giles & Jane Louvet $100 Wendy & Dale A. Todd & Grill $300 Annarosa Berman $200 Tim & Diana Kim Hart $107 Marcia Godich $100 Kristi & Andrea Earle $100 Bruce Main $100 Stephen Valentine $1,000 Andrew, Julia $300 Martha & Dennis $200 Alannah Link $107 Alta Graham $100 Diane Eder $100 Glenn & Luisa Maloof $100 R N. Webb & Gigi Menard Bombardier $200 Jorge Martinez $107 Jasmine M. 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8 The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - [email protected] - 813.920.4130 - Follow us at http://twitter.com/BigCatRescue a place to roam free for world’s oldest captive tiger - By Carole Baskin

At 24 years old, Flavio is the world’s oldest tiger. He retired from the circus to Big Cat Rescue on New Year’s Day 2002. Since the circus tigers were all fully clawed, they have had to be kept in roofed cages here to prevent escape, which limits the amount of open space they have been able to enjoy.

Six months ago we began our first attempt at creating a huge, open air space encompassing 2.5 acres, that had walls high enough to contain even the most agile of the big cats. This new design is a $200,000 endeavor but we felt it was worthwhile because all of our big cats can be rotated through the enclosure spending 2 weeks at a time on vacation in the space.

So far, thanks to some amazing donors, we have raised $76,311 and have the north wall completed. We have the bottom two rows of caging material raised around the rest of the acreage, but still need to add the two toughest, top rows. To do so requires a lift truck and we have been trying to buy, rather than rent, because there are so many ways we can use a lift truck at the sanctuary.

Every day I look at the progress and am both thrilled and sad. Every day I look at Flavio, in the twilight of his time here on the planet and ask if he can just hang on until it is done. I can’t write this without crying, because I don’t think he has months to wait. We all desperately want Flavio to know what it is like to have an unobscured view of the sky. Before his time is up he should know what it is like to walk as far as he can without hitting a wall. He should be able to wade out into the pond and send waterbirds flying, like his wild cousins do. He should be able to climb the sloping ramps to the platforms and look as far as his old eyes can see without seeing a cage wall. If you want all of this for Flavio, and all of the other tigers and lions here, YOU can volunteers awarded the SAVE Award recognizes one Juliet Simms of The make it happen. We still need to raise for outstanding outstanding volunteer or intern each Voice Visits the big cats $123,689.00 and every little bit helps a month. big cat here: dedication We are happy to celebrate Keeper Big Cat Rescue Trainee Desmond Fowles for his Congratulations to the following was very excited to contagious enthusiasm and countless http://www.razoo.com/story/ Big Cat Rescuers who have been host a private tour hours of volunteer service, Senior Bigcatvacation recognized this year of the sanctuary for Keeper Jarred Smalley for their outstanding musical talent Juliet for letting no obstacle Above: Flavio when he first arrived at Big commitment to the Simms. Many of Cat Rescue in 2002, Flavio looking out over come between him mission of Big Cat you may recall Juliet the lake from his enclosure, the Vacation and his dedication Rescue. In honor of was the runner-up Rotation enclosure in progress. to the big cats, and this commitment they on the 2nd season the Spring Interns were each presented of the reality talent Andrew Blackwood, with an award called show, The Voice. Annette Pedersen, the S.A.V.E. and She loves big cats Brittany Greene, allotted $500 to spend and chose Big Cat Erin Carden, Joanna on their favorite feline Rescue to benefit Atkin, Jordan Lain, friends. from her recent Lauren Buckingham, participation in a Michelle Graham, S.A.V.E stands for unique fundraiser called Closets for Causes. Nicole Cashman, Scratch’s Award for Designer clothing and accessories owned Valerie Stockton, and Volunteer Excellence. Named for an by Juliet were auctioned off, raising more Vannesa Ply for pioneering efforts in outstanding cougar named Scratch, than $1,200 to support the big cats! In honor foster kitten program. whose lifespan reached 30 years, of her contribution, Big Cat Rescue’s Jeff March April May Kremer presented Juliet with a special plaque Desmond Fowles Jarred Smalley Spring Interns to commemorate her gift. In recognition of her visit and to show her love of the big cats through continued support, Juliet designed a special bracelet as part of her Never Take It Off jewelry line. The bracelet is available for purchase at the link below. For every bracelet sold, $8 will be donated to Big Cat Rescue! Now that’s something to sing about! Find out more about volunteering at www.BigCatRescue.org/volunteer http://tinyurl.com/oxqkral

The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - www.BigCatRescue.org - FACEBOOK.COM/BIGCATRESCUE - WATCH US AT BIGCATTV.COM 9 TeBgCh i at Times ORDER FORM Summer 2013 TOUR TIMES & PROGRAMS Tickets available online at: ORDER DATE: http://www.zerve.com/bigcatrescue Description Qty. Size Price Each Total or by calling: (800) 979-3370

KTurids o Tour Times: Saturday & Sunday 9 AM Children of all ages and their parents can learn about the big cats on this guided tour of the sanctuary. This tour is given on a child’s educational level. Reservations not required. Tour is 1 hr. Children Looking for a very unique gift for that must be accompanied by an adult. Admission: $19 person who has everything? Look no further. Big Cat Rescue’s Roar Reserve per child under 10 years $29 per child 10 years & Wines are sure to please. Six wines to older and per adult. choose from each featuring a BCR cat. www.BenefitWines.com/bigcat Da ury To Tour Times: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 3 PM (Closed Thur.) B AiLLING dDRESS Sat & Sun 10 AM & 1 PM Guided tour of the sanctuary. Learn about the big ______cats and the threats they face both in the wild as Name well as in captivity. Hear their personal stories of ______how they were rescued. Tour is 1.5 hrs. No children Address under 10 years of age. Reservations are not required. Admission: $29 per person. 10% discount ______to all Military, Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters as City St Zip well as USF faculty and students. Appropriate ID required. Discount on Day Tour only, not available ______Day Time Phone through Zerve Reservations. feeourding t ______DONATION hA20t nNIVERSARY TOWARDS d THEonation VACATION matched ROTATION 100% ENCLOSUREby Reitzel Foundation $ Evening Phone Tour Times: Wed, Fri, Sat 4:30 PM SPONSOR A PAVE THE WAY BRICK * 4x8 $100.00 (Reservations Required) ______SPONSOR A PAVE THE WAY BRICK * 8x8 $200.00 Follow a keeper as they feed the big cats. Observe Email SPONSOR PERIMETER WALL* 1 Foot $100.00 the big cats eating and learn about the their nutritional needs in captivity. Tour is 1 hr. No R eCIPIENT Address (if different than Billing) * NOTE: Fill out blue shaded box at bottom of form children under 10 years of age. For reservations ______(800) 979-3370 Admission: $55 per person. Name

I want to join the automatic giving program, charge my card each month $ BgCtKi a eeper Tour ______Yes, I would priority shipping for an additional charge of $3.00 $ Tour Times: Sat & Sun 2 PM Address (Reservations Required) Yes, I would like a receipt for tax purposes Grand Total $ This tour takes you behind the scenes. Enjoy making ______City St Zip M eTHOD of Payment enrichment (treats and food puzzles) for the big cats and watch as the keepers hand out the enrichment Check Money Order ______you made. You will also observe operant training Day Time Phone Visa MasterCard American Express Discover sessions with the big cats. Tour is 2 hrs. No children under 10 years of age. For reservations ______Credit Card Number (800) 979-3370 Admission: $110 per person. Evening Phone

W s ild Eye At Night Tour ______Exp. Date MMYY Signature______Email Tour Times: Last Friday of the month (Reservations Required) This is a gift, please make card TO: ______FROM: ______Night Tours are the best way to see the animals Brief message to say: ______come alive! As you journey through the sanctuary you will be stalked and pounced at from the A uTOmaTIC Giving Program - join the sustaining donor society shadows! No worries though, all the animals will Special Comment, Request, or Question: Big Cat Rescue makes it easy and convenient to donate monthly with no worry. You can do this either by be safely in their enclosures. This is an adventure ______credit card or by direct debit to a checking account for as little as $5/month. For credit card donations, just that’s sure to please! Tour is 1.5 hrs. No children fill in the highlighted line on the order form above and provide your credit card information. For checking account direct debit email [email protected], or leave a message for Howard at 813-920-4130. ______under 10 years of age. For reservations This is a G-R-R-eat way to spread out your donations and provide steady support that is so meaningful for (800) 979-3370 Admission: $55 per person. the cats. ______Also offered - Wds ed ing , Parties, Big Cat Rescue is a 501 (c)(3) non profit organization, FEID 59-3330495. Our Florida registration number is CH- E DUCATIONAL OUTREACHES AND 11409. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FIED L TRIPS, Volunteer & INTERN FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 1-800-HELP-FLA TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE * Personalizations (How you want your name to appear): STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE programs and Gift Certificates STATE. Big Cat Rescue does not utilize the services of professional solicitors so 100% of all contributions go directly ______Prices and availability for all tours are subject to change. to Big Cat Rescue Corp. Visit us online for the most current tour information.

10 The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - [email protected] - 813.920.4130 - Follow us at http://twitter.com/BigCatRescue FLORIDA DISTRICT 64 how you can help Save REPRESENTATIVE JAMIE GRANT the Indochinese Tiger VISITS THE SANCTUARY The Indochinese tiger is In February we were honored to have as our guests a tiger subspecies found Florida Representative Jamie Grant (far right in the photo in Myanmar, Thailand, with Andre the tiger) and members of his staff. Rep. Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam Grant has been very generous with his time when we and southwestern China. have visited his office in Tallahassee to discuss current This tiger is disappearing animal legislation in recent years. He has shown strong faster than any other tiger interest in animal issues generally and particularly in the subspecies, with at least treatment of exotic animals in Florida. one tiger being killed each week by poachers. After the visit, we appreciated receiving the following very complimentary email: “I always brag about our district and All existing populations are at Big Cat Rescue is yet another reason I believe that this is extreme risk from habitat loss, the best district in the State. My team and I had a blast prey depletion, inbreeding, on our visit to Big Cat Rescue. As a Jesuit and Auburn hunting for trophies, poaching by grad, I’m partial to the tigers but am extremely proud of farmers, and the growing demand the work that the employees and volunteers are doing on for tiger bones in Asian medicine. behalf of all of these beautiful animals. We look forward According to some reports, almost to our next visit to Big Cat Rescue and the opportunity to three-quarters of the Indochinese continue to support their efforts.” tigers killed end up in Chinese - James W. Grant Representative, District 64 pharmacies for Chinese Traditional Medicines. Cool Cat Summer Camp In Myanmar, a designated Protected Tiger Area was clear-cut It’s back and better for sugar and tapioca plantations. than ever! Big Cat Cambodia continues illegal logging in tiger habitat. Fewer than 30 Rescue’s Summer tigers are believed to be left in Vietnam, and one has not been seen Camp is a huge hit in China since 2007 when the last surviving individual was eaten. each year and the Sign this petition to help save the Indochinese Tiger: limited spaces fill up quickly. Runs June 17th - Aug 9th. Reserve your spot today for a roaring good time www.CatLaws.com this summer! or direct link: http://tinyurl.com/ntljdpu bigcatrescue.org/kids-camp/

Fostering is Cool at sound like its all fun and interns as an opportunity the new program. We are so excited about Big Cat Rescue games, it is actually a lot to work with cats that we the fostering program and very proud of of hard work. Some kittens could actually touch. (Big the interns that have made it possible. come to us just days old Cat Rescue has a no contact Fostering is Cool and Big Cat Rescue has and without a mother so policy with the exotic cats). teamed up to help domestic kittens find they require bottle feeding And as appealing as that is, Fur-Ever homes with our on site fostering every few hours around the fostering kittens has proven program. Big Cat Rescue has three on clock. Other kittens come to be so much more than just site intern houses with feral touching and holding. The inhabited by nearly mother cats lives of these kittens have a dozen interns. Our and the interns have to been put, quite literally, in our hands and interns work full get creative with ways to we have been able to learn the hard work time at the sanctuary earn the mother’s trust. necessary to afford these kittens a second for three month chance. It continues to be a sorrowful, terms caring for The fostering program stressful and very joyful process as we more than 100 wild has become help prepare these cats. In addition a big hit with kittens for lives that to caring for their our interns otherwise might not FosteringIsCool.com wild charges, the and even the have been.” Valerie http://humanesocietytampa.org/ interns also care for v o l u n t e e r s Stockton, Level 3 domestic kittens in and staff who Intern. View our live Kitten Cameras: need of fostering also help out KittenCam.com until they are old with kitten In the first month and Clockwise from left: Missy & Sheldon foster enough to return care! “I would a half, 4 mother cats to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay kittens, Level 1 Intern Lauren Buckingham bottle just like to say that the kitten and 17 kittens have feeding, nursing kitten, Gabby foster kitten, Level to be spayed or neutered and adopted. program was presented to us been rescued thanks to 2 Intern Andrew Blackwood with sleepy kitten, While fostering cute, cuddly kittens may Level 3 Intern Valerie Stockton kitten playtime

The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - www.BigCatRescue.org - FACEBOOK.COM/BIGCATRESCUE - WATCH US AT BIGCATTV.COM 11 How to Trim her favorite platform. prepared for our newest arrival from and staff and volunteers who provided Kansas, MaryAnn. hospital care. You have all given Cleo a Bobcat’s Claws Sedation always a second chance! Precious is a 21-year-old female comes with risks so Major Surgery for Serval bobcat who came to Big Cat Rescue being able to perform Cancer Removed THE IMPORTANCE OF in 1992 from an exotic animal auction. this quick and DENTAL XRAYS simple procedure Cleo arrived at Big Cat Rescue when In her old age without sedation her former owners no longer wanted Mac the cougar she has led a was wonderful. her. People almost always discover is 17 years old. more sedentary Catching Precious Claws trimmed within the first year or two that exotic He was rescued lifestyle. She no in the squeeze cage from Precious cats don’t make good pets. Cleo is in 1998 from longer climbs was fairly easy thanks to our operant now 16 years old. a man who no her huge oak training program and the amazing longer wanted tree to lounge volunteers who implement it. him due to a in the branches change in zoning nor does Dental Work for laws in his home she scratch 20 Year Old Bobcat town that would her claws on require an investment in better caging. Angie’s owner brought her and two her logs as cougars to Big Cat Rescue in 1998. Recently Mac’s keepers noticed a frequently. Because of this her claws He claimed his county had changed swelling on his cheek just under his grew too long and some were curled their ordinances on keeping wildlife eye. He made the trip off site to see Dr. under poking the pad of her paw. Her and asked if we would look after them Wynn where he received a thorough keepers noticed right away that she while he moved and built new cages. Recently during feeding time, her examination. He had developed was limping and a closer look revealed As the years rolled by, it became keepers noticed a slight swelling arthritis in some of his joints, for which the cause. quite clear that her owner was never on her side. The swelling was very he now receives medication. Other Initially we planned on sedating returning for her. hard and seemed to wrap around her than that his overall condition was Precious in order to trim her claws. abdomen. An appointment was made great for his age. But after a quick brainstorming to transport Cleo to Ehrlich Animal session on how we could get to the Hospital to see volunteer veterinarian The main claws without sedation a brilliant Dr. Wynn. reason for idea arose. Precious was caught in his trip to the After a physical exam, xrays, and an a squeeze cage. The floor of which clinic was to ultrasound it was determined that can be raised towards the roof of the find the cause Cleo had a large mass. To determine cage essentially “squeezing” Precious of the swelling if it was removable she required between the roof and the floor panels. on his cheek. an exploratory surgery. During the His teeth appeared to be in good Once squeezed, Dr. Boorstein was able Angie the bobcat was sedated for a surgery it was discovered that the mass shape and there was no smell of to shimmy into the space underneath routine exam and blood work. During may be removable. In some cases infection in his mouth. However after her and get to her paws through the an exam last year it was discovered masses can have large blood supplies a couple of dental x-rays the culprit wire. Precious growled a bit, but did that she had high blood pressure. or involve vital was uncovered. One of his molars not struggle. Angie has been on medications to organs and was fractured above the gum line. The She almost control her blood pressure ever since are inoperable. bad tooth was extracted and Mac was seemed to and Dr. Wynn wanted to do a follow Dr. Wynn and sent home with a list of medications be aware that up exam. Dr. Boorstein to prevent infection and ease his pain. her keepers successfully During the exam, Dr. Wynn noticed a He was also put were trying removed the couple of teeth that looked bad and on a diet of soft to help her. tumor which scheduled Angie for a dental exam the foods for two After a little was no easy very next day. weeks to give while she task as part of his mouth time even stopped the bladder and Turns out Angie had four bad teeth, to heal. g r o w l i n g . all of which were extracted. Otherwise ureter wrapped In about she was in good health. After a short around the Since his dental surgery back in 10 minutes period of time waking from sedation mass. Samples of the tumor were sent March, Mac is doing great and has all of her in our onsite Cat Hospital, Angie was away for testing and Cleo returned to returned to his normal routine. claws were moved to a different enclosure on the the sanctuary to spend two weeks It is because of the wonderful donations trimmed and property. Her old enclosure was then recovering in the Cat Hospital. from our supporters that we are able the areas of her paw pads that were Cleo’s tumor was a leiomyosarcoma, a to provide top-notch veterinary care to poked were cleaned out thoroughly. tumor of smooth muscle, arising from our nearly 100 residents. If you would Afterwards Precious was kept indoors her uterus. It is malignant so it could like to make a donation to help us in the Cat Hospital for a few days to spread to other tissues. For now she to provide the very best care to cats avoid getting dirt in the small wounds is happy to be back in her enclosure. like Mac please consider making a as they healed. She has since returned Her keepers will be keeping a close donation using the order form on page to her outdoor enclosure and is back eye on her for any changes in behavior 10 or by visiting our website at; to her activities of napping in the or signs of another mass. A huge shade of her palms and perching on thank you to Dr. Wynn, Dr. Boorstein, www.BigCatRescue.org

12 The Big Cat Times - SUMMER 2013 - [email protected] - 813.920.4130 - Follow us at http://twitter.com/BigCatRescue