Elvis Serval received a physical today. Our high school summer campers were able to witness the sanctuary’s medical care firsthand and even got to listen to Elvis’ heartbeat!

Last week, I touched on Nakobi’s special needs at meal time. This week, I want to tell you about Elvis Serval’s unique food prep!

Most of our animals can eat a whole carcass diet, meaning the raw meat and bones, with no problems. Nakobi Cougar and Elvis Serval, however, have some special meal preparation guidelines!

Because we serve as a forever home to our rescues, loss is inevitable in our work. However, no matter how many times we go through it, it never gets easier. Shenandoah Tiger passed away on May 18 and it was heartbreaking for all of us here at Carolina Tiger Rescue to lose her.

It has been a busy week here at Carolina Tiger Rescue. I heard from Keeper Stripes that we safely moved Fenimore back out to his enclosure yesterday. Today, we turn our attention to Tio Tiger.

We have been keeping a close eye on Fenimore Tiger over the last couple weeks. The keepers have noticed that he hasn't been feeling his best, isn't eating all his food, and is getting around a little slower than usual. Because of this, we scheduled a physical for Fenimore in hopes of getting some blood work and doing an ultrasound on him to find out what is going on.

Beau got his physical today! Every animal, within the first 30 days of coming to Carolina Tiger Rescue, receives a physical. This physical allows us to get a baseline on their health. We draw blood to do a full work up, check all of their joints and teeth, and ensure they are overall healthy.

Last week was tough with the passing of Max Tiger, but one thing we have to remember is that we will continue to have animals who need us and we have to keep giving those animals our best, even when we are feeling down and out. A good reminder of that is our new cougar cub, Beau!

Sometimes, my job is a hard one and, as much as I love it, some days are harder than others. Today is one of those days.

Rainy days make my job a bit harder. Sometimes it’s difficult to get a good look at the animals on rainy days because they hide out in their den boxes and can’t be bothered to emerge. Other times, if they do come up, they are covered in mud! Though, I can’t say I mind a good roll in the mud myself sometimes.