Miles' Story

In September 2020, after years of litigation, Tim Stark was court-ordered to relinquish 200 animals at his Charlestown, Indiana ‘pay-to-play’ facility. Due to increased public scrutiny and pressure placed on authorities, the court order stemmed from inhumane declaw procedures and his highly profitable cub petting photo opportunities. This rescue involved missing and abandoned animals, SWAT teams, U.S. Marshals, and threats of violence from Stark. The court’s findings resulted in all hybrid species gaining protection under the Endangered Species Act. Government agencies often call in Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) to handle high-profile cases like this. Thankful to our donors, TCWR was able to provide forever homes for eight cats: four lions and four tigers. All eight animals suffered from inadequate care, resulting in infestations of intestinal parasites, inhumane declaw procedures, and other health-related concerns. One of those animals rescued was a tigress named Miles.

Like the other seven cats, Miles came to TCWR scared and traumatized by her previous facility’s five-day seizure. Upon her arrival, she received a complete medical exam, including preventative vaccinations and treatment to start combating the amount of intestinal parasites she arrived with. When she isn’t vocalizing, Miles loves playing in her pool or stalking her neighbors and caretakers. She also enjoys napping in the shaded areas of her habitat. Miles enjoys sliding down the grass in her habitat, which brings a smile to her caretakers.