Wildcat Sanctuary Rescues Small Lion Family from Canadian Roadside Zoo

SANDSTONE, Meet Mango, a feisty ambitious 8-week-old lion cub.

She is just one of three recent rescues the Wildcat Sanctuary took on just two days ago.

They were saved from a Canadian roadside show.

“This is a really unique rescue, not only because it was international and we had so many permits and so much process to get through, to be able to get the lions to safety here at the sanctuary, but then we’re also surprised with an eight-week-old, orphaned lion cub. Sadly, her mother passed away during childbirth and during emergency C section to help her,” said Tammy Thies, Executive Director & Founder, Wildcat Sanctuary.

Thies told FOX 21, they were exposed to an unfit environment.

“A lot of these lions at roadside zoos are inbred. They’re bred for profit. They have unsanitary conditions, poor nutrition, and it leads to complications. So, we’re very grateful that Mango survived,” said Thies.

The Wildcat Sanctuary is always prepared to bring in new big cats.

So far, Mango’s aunt Kim and father Carl seems to be adjusting well.

But how about, smaller big cats?

Despite the cute and cuddly appearance, caring for these animals is no easy feat.

“She is a wild animal, even at eight weeks old, she has strength, she has claws. She has a mind of her own. This little girl is really determined. So, this is an adjustment, not only for us having a bottle-fed baby that needs to be fed four times a day, but also for Mango, whose life has changed quite a bit in a short time,” explained Thies.

To accomplish rescue missions like this, the sanctuary relies on public donations.

But Mango will need surgery to correct her intestines, which is costly.

Thies said, at least a couple thousand dollars is expected for the procedure.

“Some of our out-of-pocket expenses might be covered, like mileage, but our expertise, our travel, doing the permits, doing the intake exams that they’re going to need, spays and neuters if they need it. Emergency surgery and lifelong care is always really important,” said Thies.

And just like from the hit movie, ‘The Lion King’ from now on, this pack should have no worries.

Living out their days in comfort, and calmness.

If you’re interested in helping donate towards Mango’s surgery, alongside other costs, you can donate through their Facebook page.

In addition, sanctuary staff has created Mango a separate Instagram page so people can keep up with her as she is growing up.