NEEDY ANIMALS OVERWHELMING SANCTUARIES
LOCAL SANCTUARIES POOL RESOURCES FOR COUGAR

Grenada, Mississippi… Cougar Haven and In Defense of Animals have pooled financial and physical resources to give haven to Tod, a 15-year-old male cougar who was in need of a new home when his guardian passed away. On Friday, May 28th In Defense of Animals gave Tod the trip he needed to his new home at Cougar Haven.

Cougar Haven, being at maximum caring capacity for the 15 Big Cats residing at the sanctuary, had set 15 as their limit. When approached to take Tod, Director, and founder of Cougar Haven, David Mallory asked that the family of Tod’s deceased guardian try to find placement for Tod elsewhere. The family then called In Defense of Animals’ Project Hope Sanctuary for aid. Director, Doll Stanley replied that their sanctuary was not appropriate for exotic animals, but that she would work with Cougar Haven to see what help they might lend to afford Tod a new home. The sanctuary directors came to a happy decision for Tod. Cougar Haven would provide the loving care and home that Tod needed, and IDA would transport Tod, and aid with the financial impact his care would place on Cougar Haven.

“When I laid eyes on Tod the first thing that I noticed was his magnificent tail. He came down off of his perch and chirped at me. It was easy to see that he had been socialized, and well cared for. However, he was declawed, and his teeth were filed for the protection of his guardian, and anyone who might come in contact with him. His predicament saddened me. As awesome as seeing him up close was, and as beautiful as these creatures are, they do not belong in captivity. I am distressed by how may comments I get from people that they would love to have a big cat. They have no idea what these creatures are robbed of when they are captured, or bred, to live a life of confinement. In selfish desire, and arrogance these animals are deprived of their life - for our pleasure. Often big cats become a burden, or display their true wild nature. They are then abused, euthanized, or at very best are squeezed into an already full sanctuary. Municipal zoos rarely take adult animals, and the roadside, and foreign zoos that will accept them often become a living hell for the animals,” said Project Hope Director Doll Stanley.

Tod’s need for sanctuary came at a very bad time for Cougar Haven and In Defense of Animals. Both sanctuaries are strapped for resources to care for the animals they already are caring for. In Defense of Animals vet bills alone average $500.00 - $800.00 a week, and Cougar Haven spends $500.00 a month just on food. Both sanctuaries are hoping that the community will get behind them and better aid their vital work. Too many people think that they receive government funding, grants, and other sources of income. The truth is that Cougar Haven has become a personal expense for Director David Mallory, and Project Hope has largely had to rely on aid from donations directed to their home office. The scarcity of resources has not only limited the growth of both sanctuaries, but has capped their ability to take in the animals that need their help.

To contribute to the work that the groups are managing donations may be sent to Cougar Haven POB 124, Gore Springs, MS. 38929, and In Defense of Animals Rt. 1 Box 128, Grenada, MS., 38901.