Keirhan is a remarkable female tiger with an intriguing past. She was rescued from Cricket Hollow Zoo in Iowa in 2016, following a court ruling that ordered the zoo to relinquish their tigers due to unsanitary living conditions and inadequate veterinary care. Keirhan's arrival at the EFRC was unusual because the center was never contacted during the trial and only received the tigers after the trial concluded. Ordinarily, the center prefers to communicate with law enforcement or owners before tigers are brought in to ensure they have the necessary resources and time to properly care for the animals.
Keirhan is a sociable and playful tiger who loves attention from her handlers and visitors. She delights in greeting almost everyone she meets with a friendly chuff. Interestingly, she has a shorter tail than most tigers, most likely due to a genetic defect caused by bad breeding. Sadly, inbreeding is a common practice among privately owned tigers in the US, leading to genetic defects and health problems. The EFRC conducts genetic testing with Stanford University and has found that none of their tigers are purebred, but rather a mix of at least three different tiger subspecies.
Keirhan's story highlights the challenges faced by tigers in captivity. The private trade of tigers in the US is not only cruel but also contributes to the continued decline of the species. Tigers are often overbred and inbred, leading to genetic defects and health problems. The EFRC is working tirelessly to provide a safe and healthy environment for tigers like Keirhan and raise awareness about these magnificent animals' plight.
The Exotic Feline Rescue Center is a 501c-3 nonprofit located in Center Point, Indiana. EFRC provides a permanent home for over 100 exotic cats and other animals who have suffered abuse, neglect, or abandonment. They do not buy, sell, or breed animals, and never allow public contact with them. A team of dedicated staff, interns, and volunteers provide enhanced environments, stable social groups, and excellent veterinary care to all our residents and are committed to educating the public about the importance of protecting these animals and their habitats.
Source: Exotic Feline Rescue Center