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Siberian tigers Choi-Hu and Timber were rescued in November 2009 and March 2010 respectively.
Choi-Hu is available for sponsorship in our Adopt-an-Animal program. Timber's sponsorship package will be ready soon.
Choi-Hu and Timber were emergency rescues from the same location, a private home in the Seattle area. When the couple who owned the tigers had to give up their property, both tigers were in danger of becoming homeless and possibly being euthanized. Safe Haven was the only sanctuary in the area with room to accept them.
Choi-Hu (right), a 12-year-old 400-pound Siberian tiger, was rescued on November 20, 2009. Our staff made a 17-hour non-stop drive each way. Upon arriving at Safe Haven, Choi-Hu remained in the trailer in her lockout overnight. The following morning we took her to Reno, where Dr. Patti McCormack performed blood work, vaccinations, dental work, and spay. Choi-Hu then took up residence in her temporary enclosure, which includes a winterized den and a tunnel leading to one wall of Tigger's enclosure. The discovery that she was declawed force us to reconsider our idea of eventually having her share an enclosure with Tigger, who has his claws.
At the time of Choi-Hu's rescue, we had to leave her male companion, Timber, behind (left). We initiated an urgent fundraising appeal to build a new enclosure to accommodate him as well. By the beginning of March 2010, the enclosure, while not yet fully furnished and landscaped, was complete enough to house Timber.
When we returned to Washington, we were able to lure Timber into the lockout without sedation. Because of snow and ice, the trip back to Safe Haven took almost 24 hours.
Upon arrival Timber was very nervous and initially wouldn't leave the lockout to enter the enclosure. But Tigger saved the day! He picked up his giant red Boomerball (right) and ran over to where Timber was calling out to him. Tigger chuffed and chatted to him all afternoon. Reassured, Timber entered the enclosure and spent his first night in his den.
Choi-Hu and TImber would each like to have a Boomerball of their very own! Each giant ball costs about $135. Whether you send a donation online or by check, you will have the opportunity to earmark your donation for "Boomerball." Please visit our Donations page for more information.
