DALLAS (1080 KRLD) - The tiger found recently at an abandoned home in Houston will find a new home at an animal sanctuary 79 miles south of Dallas.
The tiger was confined to a small cage inside an abandoned house. Noelle Almrud, Director of Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison, Texas, says they had a spot for a tiger and called Houston authorities to let them know.
At the ranch, the tiger, which veterinarians estimate is younger than 2 years old, will be quarantined for a minimum of two weeks and undergo a medical examination. He could be a permanent resident there but that is contingent on possible court action.
Once veterinarians are sure he's healthy, he'll be slowly introduced into his habitat. The ranch has a 5 acre complex that is naturally wooded. They want to make sure that his living situation is as close to a tiger in the wild as possible.
Exotic animals are currently readily available to anyone who wants to buy one. A simple internet search can get you a tiger, primate or other exotic animal. There are no nationwide laws against owning exotic animals. Each county has their own laws and many either don't have a law or only require a permit. That's how many animals end up at sanctuaries like Black Beauty Ranch, according to Almrud. She says many people buy the exotic pets as babies but cannot handle the animal as it grows.
"They don't make good pets. These animals are truly wild. These are not domesticated animals like dogs or cats. You're not going to domesticate a tiger in one lifespan. That predator instinct can come out. People can be injured or even killed by large cats," Almrud said.
Black Beauty ranch is a non-profit that offers tours of their property once a month. For more information or to donate, visit their website.
