Cheetahs and Their Unlikely Best Friends: Emotional Support Dogs,
Despite being the fastest terrestrial mammal, cheetahs may be very timid and nervous around other people. Actually, a lot of zoos and wildlife conservation facilities have found a novel but efficient method to make these large cats feel more at ease: matching them with emotional support dogs!
Why Do Cheetahs Need Emotional Support?
Cheetahs are more socially uncomfortable and naturally cautious than other big cats like tigers or lions. High levels of stress in captivity may affect their general well-being, reproductive potential, and general health. They may become more prone to infections and less inclined to procreate if they are under stress.
Zookeepers have resorted to an unusual remedy—dogs—to help them unwind. Dogs make excellent companions for cheetahs because they are inherently self-assured, gregarious, and social, which makes them feel safer in their surroundings.
How Does It Work?
A young cheetah cub is usually introduced to a puppy in a zoo so that the two can develop a close attachment as they grow up together. The dog's soothing presence gives the cheetah more self-assurance. The dog's calm manner helps calm the cheetah if it begins to feel nervous. Because of how well this relationship has worked, numerous zoos all around the world now use it.
Famous Cheetah-Dog Friendships
Kumbali and Kago at the Metro Richmond Zoo in Virginia, USA, are among the most well-known cheetah-dog pairs. Due to health concerns, Kumbali, the cheetah, had to be hand-raised, and Kago, a rescue dog, was brought in as his friend. Their attachment turned into a touching illustration of how interspecies relationships may help captive animals.
Final Thoughts
While cheetahs may be the ultimate sprinters, they sometimes need a little emotional support to thrive. Thanks to their canine companions, these beautiful animals can overcome their anxieties and live healthier, happier lives in zoos and conservation programs.
Who knew that the key to a cheetah’s confidence could be a playful, wagging-tailed friend? 🐆🐶
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