Sitarra, rest in peace
Very sad news today. Sitarra, one of our Bengal tigers, was rushed to the Emergency Hospital yesterday evening, unable to move her back legs. An MRI showed a ruptured disc, and surgery was started immediately. It was discovered that her spinal cord had been severed by pieces of the ruptured disc and there was no choice but to let her go.
Bobbi was near her enclosure when this happened, and no time was lost in getting her to the ER. Everything that could possibly be done was undertaken. This was a freak occurrence – very rare – and instantly paralyzed her. She would have felt no pain; just confusion because her legs didn’t work. After consulting with the vets and surgeons, it would have been inhumane to leave her in this condition.
Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and concern. We know that you grieve with us, and your support means the world to us.
About Sitarra
After rescuing Raja and Natasha, we discovered that Natasha was pregnant. Sitarra and her sister, Tabu, were born here at LTB November 8, 2002. Sitarra (which means “Star of India”) weighed just 2 lbs 12 oz at birth. She was incredibly intelligent and independent. Sitarra was fascinated by people. She was usually the first to greet anyone who approached their enclosure. As cubs, Sitarra and Tabu slept together and spent hours watching the farm animals and resident dog Hobie at LTB.
A memorial will be planned to give us all the opportunity to say good-bye together.
A fund to cover Sitarra’s emergency medical expenses has been established. Please call (619) 659-8078 or click here if you wish to contribute.