Kiara's Story

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) rescued Kiara with another tiger (Naula) in February 2020 from a roadside zoo forced to close due to the owner’s illness. The Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance (BCSA) contacted TCWR due to the facility’s proximity to the Refuge. The zoo’s owner acquired the two tigers from different places in Oklahoma, one of which was Joe Exotic’s. Upon arrival, Kiara appeared in good health despite her previous living conditions. She underwent a comprehensive examination at TCWR’s onsite veterinary clinic, which included preventative vaccinations and bloodwork to ensure her overall well-being.

Kiara was nine years old when TCWR rescued her, and she has been enjoying the sanctuary life ever since. She loves running and stalking throughout her habitat, which are instinctual behaviors for tigers. While she likes naps in the shade, she is aware of her surroundings and will perk up when someone approaches. When her animal keepers approach, Kiara often runs with them along her fence line. She loves all the attention she can get from people approaching her habitat. Kiara has a consistent raw meat diet, ranging from butchered beef to chicken. A raw meat diet provides essential amino acids like taurine and minerals like calcium and phosphorous that are critical for her survival.