Tiger makes appearance at Ind. pottery store

By Robert Annis
Robert.Annis@Topics.com
January 31, 2007

CARMEL — A special visitor named J.B. visited Paint Pals Pottery & Arts Saturday, although he didn’t come to paint. He was more interested in devouring 15 pounds of raw chicken.

J.B., a 7-month-old, 120-pound tiger who lives at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center, visited the Carmel pottery store, at 14550 Clay Terrace Blvd., to raise funds for the big cat sanctuary in Center Point, Ind.

Nearly 100 people — some from as far away as Villa Grove, Ill. — attended the event to get a closer look at the majestic young tiger cub. Jean Herrberg, the feline center’s assistant director, said J.B. would gain approximately 20 pounds a month until he reaches about 500 pounds.

Although it was his first time on display in a new setting, J.B. took all of the attention in stride. He passed the time by gnawing on chicken or “chuffing” — a friendly sound tigers make toward other tigers and select humans.

“He’s got a gentle nature,” Herrberg said. “He’s very friendly and curious.”

Garrett Raleigh, 10, and his parents Danny and Rhonda Raleigh, all of Westfield, have never been to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center. After talking with friends and visiting J.B., the family plans to make a trip in the spring.

Dottie White of Indianapolis also was thrilled to see J.B. The tiger was named after her late husband, who was a long-time supporter of the center. It was the first time she’d met the “beautiful specimen” in person, she said.

Call staff writer Robert Annis at (317) 444-5572.

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