A wildlife sanctuary in California faces serious allegations of animal abuse and neglect after a tiger cub, now named Cleo, was rescued by the Oakland Zoo.
Cleo, originally known as Lily, was taken from the Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation in Butte County when the zoo discovered she had multiple fractures and a severe bone disease.
Veterinary staff at the zoo found that Cleo had sustained 10 fractures due to a condition caused by a lack of calcium, leading to the softening of her bones.
The zoo explained that the inadequate amounts of calcium and phosphorus in her diet forced her body to draw calcium from her bones.
This weakened her skeletal structure, resulting in fractures during normal activities, such as playing, leading to significant muscle loss.
As a result of Cleo’s rescue, California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife has filed an animal neglect report against the Kirshner Foundation. Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey confirmed that the report is under review as authorities decide whether to file formal charges.
After receiving initial care at the Oakland Zoo, Cleo was transferred to the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Sanctuary in San Andreas. There, she is receiving specialized medical and nutritional treatment.
Dr. Jackie Gai, PAWS’ director of veterinary services, shared that Cleo is now on a high-quality diet and medication to ease any lingering discomfort. However, there are concerns that Cleo may have stunted growth and could develop early-onset arthritis.
Dr. Gai expressed her frustration at Cleo’s condition, noting the tragic impact on such a young animal.
She also questioned why tigers are kept in captivity, emphasizing that they belong in the wild. “It’s heartbreaking to see an animal like Cleo suffer from neglect, and it raises larger questions about the ethics of keeping these creatures in such facilities,” she said.
In addition to Cleo’s case, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) had already urged state authorities to investigate the Kirshner Foundation as early as July 2023, following concerns about Cleo’s deteriorating health. PETA noted that Cleo’s sibling, born the same day, died just two days after birth.
At the time, PETA claimed that the Department of Fish and Wildlife had not yet initiated an investigation into the death of the cub.
Brittany Peet, PETA’s general counsel for captive animal law enforcement, criticized the sanctuary, stating that it has failed to provide adequate care for its animals.
Peet called on state authorities to revoke the Kirshner Foundation’s operating permit and transfer the animals to better-equipped facilities.
Founded in 1994, the Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation is a non-profit organization that aims to educate the public about native and exotic wildlife. However, recent allegations have raised significant concerns about the animals being treated in their care.
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