Shasta's Story

In 2012, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge received a call from the neighbor of a woman who privately owned three tigers. Shasta was the youngest of the three who were housed five miles outside the rural town of Sperry, Oklahoma. Their previous owner had had a stroke a year earlier, rendering her unable to properly care for the cats and their enclosures. Out of good faith, the woman’s neighbors had been helping her feed and water the animals; however, they quickly became overwhelmed by the work and time needed to care for the animals properly. TCWR responded to the call for help and formulated a plan to rescue the three tigers safely. The three tigers arrived at TCWR in good health; however, two of the three tigers had previously been declawed, resulting in lifetime mobility issues and chronic pain. Shasta is part of our Pain Management Program, residing at Rescue Ridge with TCWR’s other senior animals. This senior tigress embraces the freedom she has been given daily.

When Shasta arrived at TCWR, she was eight years old and quickly became known for her love of stalking. Shasta loves to observe and interact with her neighbors along the fence line, engaging with them in playful exchanges. She enjoys stalking and sprinting up to her keepers, showcasing her energetic nature. Shasta also treasures her afternoon naps, basking in the sun within her habitat. Her playful spirit shines through her interactions with a variety of enrichment items, which she eagerly explores and enjoys, adding spontaneity to her daily routine.