I never realized the complex emotional make up of cheetahs. I thought of them as the fastest animals on Earth. Apparently, they need more friends.
Cheetahs Are Socially Challenged
Turns out, these big cats are sensitive creatures. They get anxious and don’t know how to socialize. Therefore, the cheetahs are too stressed to procreate. These cats need help to avoid extinction. A few years ago, a solution was found. The felines can learn to play.
We have likely seen or know someone with a service dog. These pups help people with emotional issues. They get a connection with their human which is far different than another person. For example, service pups crucial to people with disabilities. They protect their owners and stick by them.
Zookeepers recognized that cheetahs can use emotional support. The best option for this came from an unlikely source. Today, these kits are paired up with their very own support dogs-often Labradors. Truly a remarkable idea.
Zoo Expert Comments
Jack Grisham, of the St. Louis Zoo, once said that one species helping another is a love story. Jack headed up the North America cheetah survival plan. The adoption of puppies paired with cheetahs works.
Janet Rose-Hinostroza, an animal training supervisor at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, commented, “A dominant dog is beneficial because the African animals are instinctively shy.” She also explained, “When you pair cheetah cub with a guide dog, the cat looks to the dog for cues and learns to model their behavior. It’s about getting them to read that calm, happy-go-lucky vibe from the cheetah support dog.”
Great Results
As a result of this partnership, the cheetahs are less socially awkward. When they can interact with the pup, the step to connect with another cheetah is less daunting. The cheetahs are more confident. Happy confident animals can relax and create offspring. This plan helps preserve these beautiful and unique creatures—man’s best friend as a cheetah playmate. This is a remarkable idea that works.
The following video will give you paws!