ALPINE, Calif. (KGTV) — Lions Tigers & Bears animal rescue is mourning the loss of an 18-year-old lioness.
The rescue said Zulu had been suffering from several medical ailments, including GI issues and renal disease, and had been receiving treatment from a veterinarian. Monday, the rescue's founder, Bobb Brink, made the difficult decision to say goodbye to the lioness after her condition continued to deteriorate.
"She has been suffering with these issues for too long and her condition has continued to progressively decline. So today, the time came to help her pass on to heaven," a release from the rescue said. "Saying goodbye to Zulu was a painstaking decision, but it is the final gift we could give her to ease the pain she had been enduring and make certain she suffered no more."
In April 2017, Zulu was rescued at 14 years old along with two other lions, Arusha and Louie. The lions' private owner and a former animal trainer approached the resuce to relinquish the animals. Zulu had previously been an animal performer in movies, television, and live shows.
"We want to thank each of you who has been supporting Zulu and wishing her well throughout her battle," the rescue wrote. "Zulu – you will be missed dearly, sweet girl. Run free and suffer no more."
