Photos by: Christi Gilbreth / The HSUS
In May 2021, WAN reported on a disturbing story of a young missing pet tiger that was on the loose in Houston, Texas. Thankfully, the tiger named India was anonymously surrendered to authorities. The nine-month-old, 134-pound cub was then transported to his forever home at Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison, Texas.
This month marks India’s one year anniversary at the 1,400-acre sanctuary, which is operated by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). He is now 251 pounds and will turn two years old in August.
In his first year at the sanctuary, India has overcome obstacles that were a result of having been a pet. When he arrived, India was accustomed to close human interaction and did not want to be alone. The staff would visit the big cat and sit outside of his habitat for short periods of time throughout the day. As time went on, the interactions became fewer each day and eventually he started to adjust and become more independent.
Another challenge he faced was physical. After India’s spurts of excitement running around and exploring his expansive new home, India’s care team could see that his back legs were tired and weak. His muscles did not properly develop because he was kept in a house and unable to run at full speed or jump. Over time, he was able to gain strength and run for longer intervals.
“Once India developed more confidence, independence, and physical strength, his natural behaviors and wild instincts kicked in. He is thriving and happy, hiding in the tall grass, pouncing on balls and boxes, and experiencing other enrichment activities. He also loves to climb and swim, or just take long naps under a tree,” said Noelle Almrud, senior director at Black Beauty Ranch.
“He is highly curious about his sanctuary neighbors, including Sammi the former circus bear. India likes to peek over the divider wall between them to see what’s going on,” continued Almrud. “We are looking forward to watching India mature and continuing to enjoy his life here, where he will be properly cared for and never have to worry again.”
“We cannot have dangerous wild animals roaming neighborhoods or confined inside of a house. Forcing animals like India to be treated as a ‘pet’ is inhumane and a serious public safety risk—no matter how ‘cute’ or ‘tame’ the animal may seem,” said Kitty Block, President and CEO of HSUS. “Big cats express natural, unpredictable behaviors that can occur at any moment. Thankfully, we can provide permanent sanctuary for India, but that is not going to stop the problem. Situations like this are why we are working to pass federal legislation. The Big Cat Public Safety Act would prohibit keeping big cats as pets.”
Please urge U.S. Congress to support the Big Cat Public Safety Act by signing HSUS’ petition HERE!
You can also donate to the Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch to help them care for India and the countless other rescued animals at their sanctuary, HERE!
You can help all animals and our planet by choosing compassion on your plate and in your glass. #GoVeg
