close
close

Rescue of tiger cub triggers investigation in wildlife sanctuary – One Green Planet

Help keep One Green Planet free and independent! Together we can ensure our platform remains a hub for promoting ideas that work towards a sustainable, healthy and compassionate world. Please support us in continuing to advance our mission.


A California wildlife sanctuary is under scrutiny for alleged animal cruelty and neglect after a tiger cub named Cleo, formerly Lily, was rescued from the Oakland Zoo. Cleo suffered from a severe bone disease and had 10 broken bones caused by decalcification – a result of calcium and phosphorus deficiencies in her diet. This condition caused her bones to weaken, resulting in fractures during normal play.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife has filed a report against the Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation in Butte County, and the district attorney is reviewing possible charges. Cleo’s rescue raises questions about the sanctuary’s care practices.

Cleo has since been transferred to the Performing Animal Welfare Society Sanctuary in San Andreas, where she is receiving specialized medical and nutritional care. Dr. Jackie Gai, the sanctuary’s veterinary director, expressed concern about Cleo’s long-term health, pointing to possible growth disorders and early arthritis.

In July 2023, PETA called for an investigation, citing Cleo’s deteriorating health and the death of her sister shortly after giving birth. They argue that the shelter violated its license by breeding tigers and demanded that the license be revoked and the animals transferred to reputable facilities.

Please sign this petition to call on the Scottish Government to stop tourists feeding wildlife!

See also:

Simple ways to help the planet:

  • Eat less meat: Download Food monsterthe largest plant-based recipe app on the App Store to reduce your carbon footprint, save animals and get healthy. You can also download a print or electronic copy of our Favorite Vegan Cookbooks.
  • Adopt a pet: Visit WildWatchersa watchdog platform specifically designed for animal, earth and wildlife warriors to actively give back, save and protect animals and the planet.
  • Reduce your fast fashion footprint: Take the initiative by speaking out against fast fashion pollution and supporting sustainable and circular brands like Small rescue that raise awareness of important issues through recycled zero-waste clothing that is designed to be returned and remade over and over again.
  • Support independent media: Public funding gives us a greater chance to continue to provide high quality content. Please note support us through a donation!
  • Sign a petition: Your voice counts! Help turn petitions into successes by signing the latest list. Petitions to sign to help people, animals and the planet.
  • Stay informed: Stay up to date with the latest news and important stories on animals, the environment, sustainable living, food, health and human interest by subscribing to our newsletter!
  • Do what you can: Reduce waste, plant trees, eat local, travel responsibly, reuse things, say no to single-use plastic, recycle, choose wisely, switch to cold water washing, switch from fossil fuels, save water, shop wisely, donate when you can, grow your food, volunteer, save energy, compost and don’t forget the microplastics and microbeads lurking in conventional household and personal care products!