Thelma's Story

Thelma is one of seven tigers rescued in April 2025 from a private facility in Pahrump, Nevada, where she lived in a barren, unsafe enclosure with little access to clean water and proper nutrition. Now safe at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR), Thelma is starting her journey toward recovery and healing.

After a 1,450-mile journey to our Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS)–accredited facility in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Thelma—an orange tigress—received a thorough veterinary evaluation. She arrived underweight, with noticeable muscle atrophy, likely from years of inactivity and inadequate care. Though her physical condition is steadily improving with a specialized care plan, Thelma also shows signs of emotional trauma, remaining cautious around humans—a response we fully respect.

At TCWR, every animal is allowed to heal at their own pace, free from pressure or expectation. Thelma’s care includes a tailored diet to rebuild her strength, close veterinary monitoring, and enrichment designed to promote both her physical and emotional recovery. Our dedicated team works daily to provide the safety and compassion she needs to feel secure in her new home.