Dying tiger receives plenty of TLC

BY CHRIS REDFORD credford@ktbs.com
Created: February 15, 2008 08:29 PM
Modified: February 15, 2008 08:29 PM

He’s only a teenager, but unfortunately, it appears his days are numbered. We’re talking about a siberian tiger who many people in the Ark-La-Tex have come to know and love.

He’s a member of the largest and most powerful species of cat in the world, but 16-year old siberian tiger, Pooh Bear, is at his weakest right now.

Jenny Senier with “Yogi and Friends” Exotic Cat Sanctuary in Frierson says Pooh Bear has started showing signs of the dying process. It’s a heartbreaking sight.

Senier says in nature, when a tiger goes through the dying process, it goes off on its own. She says the other exotic cats here can sense death is near.

Senier says vets have started pooh bear on an antibiotic treatment, but they’ve told her there’s no guarantee.

Pooh Bear came here from Texas after his owner died of cancer. He had lived on concrete most of his life. When he arrived his pads were badly torn, but they’ve since healed.

Senier says at least Pooh Bear will spend what’s left of his life outside surrounded by a family who loves him.

Senier says it’s not known how long the dying process takes, but vets have told her once he stops eating and drinking, it’s time to make a decision.

http://www.ktbs.com/news/Dying-tiger-receives-plenty-of-TLC-8815/