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THE “BEAR” NECESSITIES: BLOSSOM AND DELILAH ARRIVE IN ALPINE

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By Miriam Raftery

 

August 27, 2011 (Alpine) – Blossom and Delilah, two bears rescued from a closed zoo in Oklahoma have arrived at their new home at Lions, Tigers & Bears in Alpine.

 

The animals were destined to be sold to a game ranch where they could be hunted and killed if not for the intervention of Bobbi Brink, owner of LTB, a rescue facility in Alpine.

 

“Blossom enjoys playing in the water tub and Delilah is a sleeper. She is more kicked back and lazy…but she keeps a good eye on Blossom,” Brink reported in an email sent to LTB members and supporters.

The bears are currently in quarantine cages to assure that they are healthy before introducing them into a brand new, spacious bear enclosure. The new space also now houses Liberty, a yearling black bear cub captured by officials after raiding a campground. Liberty was relocated to Lions, Tigers & Bears to spare the animal from being euthanized.

 

Crews are now putting finishing touches on the two-bedroom bear enclosure which will soon house the Oklahoma newcomers, as well as Liberty.
 

“She loves hanging out in the middle of the construction with the guys. She is so funny—she des crazy things to get their attention when they are not paying enough attention to her,” Brink said of Liberty.
 

The two new arrivals were the last remaining animals at the Little River zoo in Norman, Oklahoma, that closed earlier this year due to financial problems. Brink observed, “Their diet was neglected as were the grounds where they were kept.”
 

Brink joined forces with the owner of Arbuckle Wilderness Park, an exotic animal facility, to assist in building special equipment moving the animals. A former employee of the Little River Zoo helped clear trees and brush with a chainsaw and axe to create a trail for the rescue crew to reach the bears’ enclosure. Brink’s father installed air conditioning in a trailer to keep the bears cool and comfortable during their cross-country trip.  She elicited sponsorship from Chevrolet for a truck to do the hauling and  Home Depot pitched in when repairs to the cooling system were needed. 
 

The bears’ journey is chronicled in a series of videos; view the final video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laSfQIGlSaE&feature=youtu.be

 

For more information on Lions, Tigers and Bears, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.
 


WINE TASTING IN THE WILD OCTOBER 1

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September 18, 2011 (Alpine) – Lions, Tigers and Bears invites the public to savor wining and dining under the stars to benefit the big cat rescue facility in nonprofit. In addition to wine and food provided by PRP Wine International and Chef Drew, visitors will have an opportunity to win a drawing to feed one of the big cats including lions, tigers, and a leopard. This “wild” event will be held Saturday, October 1 from 6-8 p.m. at 24402 Martin Way in Alpine.

 

Tickets for $60/person for members of Lions, Tigers and Bears or $75 for nonmembers. You must be 21 to attend.
 

The facility also seeks donations to fund thousands of dollars in needed dental care and medical tests for Blossom and Delilah, two black bears recently rescued from neglect at an Oklahoma zoo that closed.

Reserve space by calling 619-659-8078. For more information, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.
 

READER'S EDITORIAL: TRAGEDY HIGHLIGHTS NEED TO RESTRICT OWNERSHIP OF EXOTIC ANIMALS

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By Bobbi Brink
Lions, Tigers and Bears in Alpine

 

October 20, 2011 (Alpine)--Yesterday's tragedy at an exotic wild life farm in Zanesville, Ohio should serve as an urgent alarm for all of us that we need stronger regulations and a national data bank for all wild animals living in captivity. Nearly fifty animals - Bengal tigers, black bears, lions, wolves and others - were killed by police after a distraught private owner opened their cages, setting them loose.... and then killed himself.

Authorities in Ohio, called to this farm with numerous complaints over the years, have had little legal recourse to address these conditions. In America, many states simply have no enforceable laws for private ownership of these beautiful, but powerful wild animals.

I spent the day yesterday talking about this issue with media outlets around San Diego County and watched as other animal advocates and experts expressed my same concerns on national television, calling for more strict regulations and laws so that we can prevent these types of incidents from happening again and to protect the animals and our communities.

Lions Tigers & Bears is working with other sanctuaries around the country to call for these stronger regulations as well as requirements for micro-chipping of wild animals to help authorities identify the animals and hold owners more accountable.

Learn about more ways to help at www.lionstigersandbears.org.

Lions, Tigers and Bears is a rescue facility for big cats and bears located in Alpine, California. The views expressed in this editorial reflect the views of its author and do not necessarily reflect the views of East County Magazine. To submit an editorial for consideration, contact editor@eastcountymagazine.org .
 

LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS MOURNS LOSS OF TIGER RAISED AT RESCUE FACILITY IN ALPINE

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By Miriam Raftery

August 1, 2013 (Alpine)--Sitarra, a Bengal tiger raised from a cub at Lions, Tigers and Bears in Alpine, has died of a ruptured disk.  The big cat rescue center is a no breeding facility, however Sitarra was one of two cubs born to Natasha, a pregnant tiger rescued over a decade ago.

Bobbi Brink, founder of the facility, called the tragedy “very sad news” and has said that the tiger was like a child to her.

Brink was near the tiger’s enclosure when Sitarra collapsed while running, unable to move her back legs. An MRI showed a ruptured disc and the animal underwent immediate surgery at an emergency animal hospital.  But Brink disclosed, “. It was discovered that her spinal cord had been severed by pieces of the ruptured disc and there was no choice but to let her go.”

She added, “ Everything that could possibly be done was undertaken. This was a freak occurrence - very rare - and instantly paralyzed her. She would have felt no pain; just confusion because her legs didn't work.  After consulting with the vets and surgeons, it would have been inhumane to leave her in this condition.”

Brink rescued Natasha and a male tiger, Raja, later discovering that Natasha was pregnant.  They were the first tigers recued by the facility. Sitarra and her sister, Tabu, were born at LTB on November 8, 2002. Sitarra, which means “Star of India,” weigh just two pounds, 12 ounces at birth.

“She was incredibly intelligent and independent. Sitarra was fascinated by people. She was usually the first to greet anyone who approached their enclosure,” Brink recalled. “As cubs, Sitarra and Tabu slept together and spent hours watching the farm animals and resident dog Hobie at LTB.

A fund to cover Sitarra’s emergency medical expenses has been established.  Call  (619) 659-8078 or click here if you wish to contribute.

TIGER PATRIARCH, RAJA, LAID TO REST AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS

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“Raja’s spirit will continue to live on as we uphold our promise to provide a safe haven for the unwanted and abused. Rest in peace Raja, you will forever be in our hearts.” -- Bobbi Brink

By Miriam Raftery

October 15, 2013 (Alpine) – Last week, Lions Tigers and Bears in Alpine held a memorial service for Raja, the beloved tiger patriarch who resided at the facility since his rescue from a Texas owner in 2002.  The 17-year-old tiger died October 7 of complications from chronic renal failure, a common cause of death in elderly felines.

“Raja and Natasha were the very first rescues at LTB, and the founding inspiration behind our ongoing efforts to make the world a better place for some of nature’s most beautiful animals,” said LTB owner Bobbi Brink. 

Raja is also survived by his daughter, Tabu.  A second daughter, Sitarra, died earlier this year of  a spinal cord injury in a freak accident that left her paralyzed. Although LTB is a no-breed facility, Natasha was pregnant at the time  Raja and Natasha were rescued from a Texas facility where they were kept in a small, cramped cage.

Brink raised funds to build “Tiger Trails”, a spacious exercise area for the rescued tigers that included a pool, waterfall, climbing equipment and plenty of room to room. East County Magazine editor  Miriam Raftery was at Lions, Tigers and Bears for the opening of Tiger Trails and witnessed the tigers enjoying freedom for the first time in their lives. The photos on this page were taken then. Read our story and view a brief video of the opening of Tiger Trails, which included images of Raja and Natasha: http://www.eastcountymagazine.org/a_purr_fect_place

The facility has grown since then to house numerous varieties of exotic cats as well as several bears.  Donations are sought to allay expenses and help with the car of Raja’s mate, Natasha, and daughter, Tabu.  Visit www.lionstigersandbears.org for details.

 

Brink concluded, “Raja’s spirit will continue to live on as we uphold our promise to provide a safe haven for the unwanted and abused. Rest in peace Raja, you will forever be in our hearts.”

 

 

LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL DEC. 6

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By Miriam Raftery

 

 

November 22, 2014 (Alpine) – You’re invited to an afternoon of yuletide fun watching animals open their Christmas presents at Lions, Tigers and Bears. The animal rescue facility hosts is annual Christmas Festival Fundraiser on Saturday, December 6th from 1-4 p.m.  You can also do holiday shopping at more than 40 vendor booths, enjoy food from Descanso Junction and visit Santa Claus. (To buy tickets, click here.)

“This year we are putting out an extra special request for donated Christmas Trees that we can give to the animals on this special day. Trees are an amazing form of enrichment for the animals,” says founder Bobbi Brink. (Click here to donate a tree.)

In addition, a new bear habitat will be unveiled during the December 6th event featuring rescued bears Albert, Cherry Bomb, Teddy and Baloo.

Join us on this exciting day and watch our bears romp, play and enjoy the rolling hills in this expansive new habitat,” says Brink.

For more information on Lions, Tigers and Bears and how you can help enrich the lives of rescued animals at the nonprofit facility in Alpine, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.

 

 


 

 

 

THANKSGIVING FEAST AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS NOV. 29

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By Miriam Raftery

 

November 22, 2014 (Alpine) --The Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 29th, is a special day at the Lions Tigers and Bears ranch in Alpine. It is the day the animals celebrate with their version of a traditional Thanksgiving meal. 

You’re invited to join in a special feeding visit at 10:30 a.m. to watch big cats and bears enjoy their feast. Turkey and fish donations are greatly appreciated. Click here to donate a turkey for the cats or fish for the bears in advance.

For reservations, call 619-659-8078 and choose option two. (This event is free to LTB members. For non-members, the cost is $30 adults, $15 children.) 

To learn more about Lions Tigers and Bears, a nonprofit rescue facility, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.

 

 

 

A NEW TIGER IS COMING TO LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS

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By Miriam Raftery

November 27, 2014 (Alpine) - Phevos will soon be the newest tiger to call Lions, Tigers and Bears home.  The Alpine rescue facility has been approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a permit to import the tiger, who was suffering in abusive conditions in a foreign zoo.

Phevos and his sister, Athena, were part of an Italian traveling circus and later were moved to a zoo in Trikala, Greece. Athena cut her foot on a Christmas ornament in 2012 and developed an infection after receiving no treatment for six months. She died of neglect, but Phevos will have a better future thanks to the efforts of Bobbi Brink, founder of Lions, Tigers and Bears rescue facility in Alpine.

Lions, Tigers and Bears provides spacious enclosures complete with a pond, waterfall, room to run and climbing equipment for its tigers.

“We are excited to welcome the newest member of our sanctuary family and provide him with the compassionate care he rightly deserves,” says Brink. “ Be sure to follow Phevos' rescue on our website (www.LionsTigersAndBears.org) as it unfolds.”

 


A BEARY MERRY CHRISTMAS AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS IN ALPINE

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Bobbi Brink, founder of the rescue facility in Alpine (photo, left) works to save bears and other exotic animals from canned hunts and cub petting operations in U.S.

 

By Miriam Raftery

 

December 5, 2014 (Alpine) – East County Magazine stopped by  Lions, Tigers and Bears this week for a sneak-preview of the brand new bear enclosure that opens this Saturday, December 6th, at the rescue facility’s annual holiday party and fundraiser from 1 to 4 p.m.. 

We also got some up-close-and-personal looks at some of the big cats and bears who will be celebrating too—with Christmas trees, holiday packages to rip open and special foods for these special rescued animals—including Cherry Bomb, Teddy, Albert and Baloo —grizzly and Himalayan black bears who will be turned loose into their new two-acre home (albeit a temporary home while an even bigger two-acre preserve is built.)

The new habitat will include ponds, logs and trees for bears to swim, climb, scratch and play.  Brink led us inside the future bear home for a close-up look at the habitat. In addition to the newly rescued bears, Brink also hopes to introduce Meatball, a much-publicized black bear rescued  in Southern California. Meatball faced euthanasia had it not been for Brink taking in the young bear, which displayed Yogi and Boo Boo-style preferences for raiding campgrounds to savor campers' foods--including his namesake- meatballs.

The new bears were rescued after living in deplorable conditions in underground pits and a backyard zoo. In an exclusive interview with founder Bobbi Brink airing later today on KNSJ at 5 p.m., she discloses that rescued bears here were part of a “cub petting” operation in which tourists are charged to pet bear cubs. But when they get older many are sold off for “canned” hunts. The practice is similar to lion hunts exposed on a 60 Minutes Episode last week in South Africa. 

“The same thing is happening right here,” says Brink, who is pushing for legislation in Congress to ban the practice. “It’s not a sport to shoot an animal at close range that’s been bottle fed.”  Canned hunts remain legal even in California, as long as the hunter is at least 1,100 feet from his prey. In some states, animals are put in trailers or boxes to be shot.

Fortunately, the bears and other animals at Brink’s no-breed facility in Alpine have been spared that dire fate.  Here, you can see an array of exotic animals from the namesake lions and tigers to leopards, bobcats and even a mountain lion—and on Saturday, all will be frolicking as they celebrate the holiday festivities with the enrichment activities Brink and her merry team of elves are planning.

 “This year we are putting out an extra special request for donated Christmas Trees that we can give to the animals on this special day. Trees are an amazing form of enrichment for the animals,” says founder Bobbi Brink. (Click here to donate a tree.)

 “Join us on this exciting day and watch our bears romp, play and enjoy the rolling hills in this expansive new habitat,” says Brink.

You’ll be able to do holiday shopping at more than 40 vendor booths, enjoy food from Descanso Junction and kids can visit Santa Claus. (To buy tickets, click here.)

For more information on Lions, Tigers and Bears and how you can help enrich the lives of rescued animals at the nonprofit facility in Alpine, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.

 

TIGER RESCUED FROM GREECE DIES IN ALPINE

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East County News Service

September 27, 2017 (Alpine)—Phevos, a  17-year-old tiger rescued from Greece and given refuge at Lions, Tigers and Bears in Alpine has died.

In an e-mail from LTB, founder Bobbie Brink states, “Phevos' health had been on a slow decline over the last two months.

He had progressively shown signs of pain and   became increasingly withdrawn from his normal interests and activities.  His appetite had steadily decreased, making our abilities to provide pain medication difficult, since medication was administered through his daily diet.” 

So the decision was made to humanely euthanize Phevos.  Brink adds, “Phevos was truly a tiger that defied all odds thrown his way.”

 Born in captivity and used in an Italian touring circus group, Phevos was seized with his mate Athena, and five other tigers, by Greek authorities in 2002. Phevos and Athena were sent to the Trikala Zoo, outside of Athens, Greece where they lived together until March 2014, when Athena passed away due to medical neglect. Athena had a gaping wound in her paw caused by a Christmas ornament that went untreated for over a year. With the economic crisis in Greece, conditions of the zoo deteriorated over time, making Phevos' rescue an urgent matter, as he was not receiving necessary care.

David Barnes, a UK citizen who initially helped place the two tigers at the Trikala Zoo, and who first brought the plight of Phevos to Brink’s attention, helped arrange the rescue that would bring this suffering tiger to Lions Tigers & Bears. Eight months after Athena's death, Phevos was rescued from the Trikala Zoo and brought to Lions Tigers & Bears. Phevos' rescue made international headlines, as he was "the tiger that travelled halfway across the world for a better life."

Brink concludes, “And a better life indeed is what Phevos received here at our sanctuary. Every effort was  made to ensure his comfort and restore his health.  

Phevos was a gentle giant, with a calm and reserved demeanor. He enjoyed sunning himself in the cool grass, lounging in the shallows of his pool and taking naps in his beds of hay. Phevos liked to spend time with Maverick, our two year old male tiger, as they would enjoy each other's company through their habitat fences.”

Donations to support the rescue operations of Lions, Tigers and Bears can be made at http://www.lionstigersandbears.org

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS

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East County News Service

Lions, Tigers and Bears invites you to a Christmas Festival on  Saturday, December 5th from 1 to 4 p.m.  You can watch the animals open their Christmas presents –and get holiday shopping all in one day at the exotic animal rescue facility east of Alpine.

There will be also be many local vendors, food, entertainment and a special appearance by Santa Claus.

For details on admission, tickets and more, you can visit www.LionsTigers.org.

TIGER CUB “HIMMEL” THRIVES AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS

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Hear our interview with Bobbi Brink, founder of Lions Tigers and Bears, originally aired on KNSJ:  http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/uotfmyp3u1/Newsmaker-LionsTigersBears-TigerCubHimmel-BobbieBrink.mp3

By Tasha Matthews and Miriam Raftery

Tiger photos provided by Lions, Tigers and Bears

November 21, 2015 (Alpine) – A tiger cub found wandering the streets of Hemet, is now thriving thanks to care at Lions, Tigers and Bears sanctuary in Alpine.  Meet Himmel, named by a unanimous vote of LTB members after the late San Diego News 8 reporter Larry Himmel, a creative and brilliant newscaster who would often visit Lions, Tigers, and Bears.

Himmel, now four months old, is full of life and joy. When we visited, he ran up to the cage bars ready to romp and eager to be free. Fortunately at Lions, Tigers and Bears, the frisky cub can spend play time in larger enclosures where he has the opportunity to run, climb and even swim, also interacting with other tigers at this very special facility.

The young cub was declawed by prior owners and arrived limping. He also suffered a hernia, probably from being taken from his mother and mishandled at an early age. The cub, now a bouncing 45 pounds, is due for surgery in January. 

Now meet Tabu, a full-grown tiger. Don't get too close though!  Tabu has a mighty roar and an intimidating growl.

The 94- acre area Lions, Tigers and Bears sanctuary (nearly as large as the San Diego Zoo, with room to develop into an even larger facility someday) shares space with lions, tigers, bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and more. Home to over 60 animals, it’s a place where these animals are well taken care of and treated with the upmost tender loving care.

Bobbi Brink is the founder of Lions, Tigers, and Bears. Recently, we visited to take close-up look at some of the animals there.

 Due to the injustices that many of these animals face as a result of the exotic animal trade, Brink travels the country rescuing lions, tigers, bears and other large animals in need of a better home. She  also spends time lobbying for legislation to restrict or ban the sale of these animals by private individuals. 

Brink and her dedicated team of  volunteers provide security and plenty of TLC (tender loving care) that these animals need.

You can help ensure the safety of the rescued by donating, becoming a member, or attending the upcoming Christmas Festival at Lions, Tigers and Bears on December 5th, when the animals will be given wrapped gifts to open. There will also be crafts, food and vendors for guests to enjoy.

To learn more, you can visit Lions, Tigers, and Bears at www.lionstigersandbears.org.

Photo: Bobbi Brink, right, with Tasha Matthews, a student at the University of California, San Diego and volutneer with East County Magazine.

 

LIONS, TIGERS & BEARS MOURNS YOUNG TIGER CUB

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Tiger cub's sudden passing is a major blow to the sanctuary
 
 
January 19, 2016 (Alpine) - Bobbi Brink, Founder/Director of San Diego's non-profit accredited sanctuary, Lions Tigers & Bears announced the sudden passing of the sanctuary's six-month-old tiger cub named Himmel.
 
"It is with a heavy heart and incredible sadness that we must share with you the news that Himmel, the young 6 month old tiger cub, has tragically passed away," states Brink.
 
Himmel arrived at LTB on September 5th, 2015, malnourished, declawed, and suffering from an umbilical hernia. Brink states "We had concerns that he had other underlying issues, but through attentive care, proper nutrition and an enriching diet, Himmel appeared to be morphing from a frail cub into a young tiger with a playful personality and a full life ahead of him. As happy as he was, we knew he still had a hard road ahead of him, with his nutritional issues and pain everyday from cruelly being declawed."
 
Himmel underwent a routine veterinary procedure late last week to be neutered and repair his hernia. Himmel was also scheduled for reparative surgery on his declawed paws in February.
 
The sanctuary's medical team, led by lead veterinarian, Dr. Jane Meier, who has over 40 years of experience, performed the procedure and used the opportunity to give the tiger his required vaccinations while under anesthesia.
 
Dr. Meier states, "The surgery went well and was uneventful. As Himmel was transitioning into surgical recovery, he suffered profound respiratory failure and collapse. Despite the best resuscitation efforts of our veterinary team and animal care staff, Himmel did not recover." In regards to the cause of death: "the most likely cause of the problem was a severe allergic reaction, anaphylaxis, which occurred in response to one of the injections Himmel was given at the end of his surgery. This is the most serious type of allergic reaction and is often fatal. It is the same kind of reaction caused by peanut allergies in people and can happen so quickly and severely that even aggressive treatment is ineffective."
 
Brink states "With any decision to perform medical procedures, the risks and benefits must always be weighed. Along with our medical team, we make our decisions based on careful planning and the information we have at the time, always putting the animal's health and well-being first and foremost. The sudden loss of Himmel is a stark reminder of how even after thoughtful and thorough consideration of the benefits and hazards, you can never completely eliminate the risks of a medical procedure. Himmel's passing is not only a blow to our sanctuary team, but one of the tragic consequences that stem from the indiscriminate captive breeding of exotic animals. With no family history to reference, it is hard to pinpoint an animal like Himmel's underlying issues."
 
Himmel was found roaming the streets of Hemet, California in early September 2015. He was anonymously turned into an animal shelter, when California Department of Fish & Wildlife stepped in and asked LTB to provide refuge to the three month old tiger cub.
 
Himmel's name was inspired by the late Larry Himmel, local CBS 8 San Diego newscaster and longtime supporter of our sanctuary, after the name won the most votes on an online naming contest in October.
 
Sanctuary staff described the tiger as "playful, goofy, awkward and sweet."
 
Brink states "Life sometimes is unexplainable and seemingly unfair. With any death, we are always left with so many questions, but in a life cut so short, we often can find no answers that comfort us. They say God never gives us more then we can handle and when he takes something He always gives back more. Himmel's passing will continue to fuel our passion to stop the abuse that is the exotic animal trade - so no more cubs are forced to endure the perils that stem from this heinous trade.Himmel may not have been with us for long, but he left boundless paw prints on our hearts that will last forever."
 
For more information or to make a donation to help care for the animals at LTB, please visitwww.LionsTigersAndBears.org or call (619) 659-8078

LUAU AT LIONS, TIGERS & BEARS: WILD IN THE COUNTRY MAY 14

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East County News Service

April 2, 2016 (Alpine) -- Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB), San Diego's only non-profit accredited big cat, bear and exotic animal rescue sanctuary, invites guests to its annual Wild in the Country Fundraiser on Saturday, May 14th, from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. with a VIP reception from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. The family friendly event will feature a silent and live auction, live entertainment, a catered dinner and of course, visits with the big cats and bears.

"This is our biggest fundraiser each year," states Bobbi Brink, Founder/Director of LTB. "We depend on and value the support we receive from our guests and members. If you haven't been to LTB yet, this is a great time to come out, have fun and see the work that we do firsthand."

LTB expects more than 500 people in attendance. Featured auction items include a Hawaiian cruise, an African Safari, a Brewmaster Experience with Greenflash, a Mammoth vacation getaway, wine tastings, art, jewelry, dining experiences and so much more!

Tickets are on sale now and available online: https://lionstigersandbears.org/product/tickets-to-wild-in-the-country-2016/ , $110 for adults ($135 after April 29th), $45 for kids (12 and under) or $1,000 for a table for 10. VIP pricing is $250 for adults and $45 for kids (12 and under). A VIP table for 10 is $2,300. VIP tickets include a VIP reception that will be held from 2:00-3:00 p.m. VIP guests will be treated to a reception featuring hors d'oeuvres by renowned Chef Drew McPartlin, a complimentary cocktail and a "Feed a Wild One Experience" with the option to feed a lion, tiger or bear. Tickets must be purchased in advance, RSVP by May 6th, 2015.

Corporate and Donor Circle Sponsorships are also available. Email veronica@LionsTigersAndBears.org or call (619) 659-8078 option 5 for more details. 

Wild in the Country will be held rain or shine. Lions Tigers & Bears is located at 24402 Martin Way in Alpine, Calif. To purchase your tickets visit https://lionstigersandbears.org/product/tickets-to-wild-in-the-country-2016/, or call (619) 659-8078 option 2.

 

About Lions Tigers and Bears

Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB) is a federally and state licensed non-profit 501(c)(3) rescue facility dedicated to providing a safe haven to abused and abandoned exotic animals while inspiring an educational forum to end the exotic animal trade. LTB is a NO KILL, NO BREED and NO SELL facility that allows the animals in its care the opportunity to live out their lives with dignity in a caring and safe environment. LTB is one of the few sanctuaries in the United States with the highest level of accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the American Sanctuary Association.

For more information or to make a donation to help care for the animals at LTB, please visit www.LionsTigersAndBears.org or call (619) 659-8078.

 

LIONS, TIGERS & BEARS ASSISTS IN RESCUE AT WILDLIFE FACILITY THREATENED BY FIRE IN LOS ANGELES

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East County News Service

July 24, 2016 (Los Angeles) - Lions Tigers & Bears, an Alpine-based nonprofit rescue organization, is helping with fire evacuation efforts at Wildlife Waystation, a non-profit animal sanctuary located in East Los Angeles County,  The Wildlife Waystation is home to over 400 animals of varying  species—from exotic birds and monkeys to lions, tigers, bears and over 40 chimpanzees.

Emergency evacuation efforts at Wildlife Waystation started yesterday as the Santa Clarita fire AKA the Sand Fire whipped through the area at an alarming rate.  The fire has now charred over 3,000 acres.

The Sand Fire broke out on Friday afternoon, and spread to over 3,000 acres by the evening hours. The Sand Fire was 1/2 a mile away from Wildlife Way Station and officials reported it was 0% contained when Lions, Tigers & Bears left San Diego.  As of Sunday, Wildlife Waystation posted on its Facebook page that the facility now appears safe—after many animals were evacuated.

Lions Tigers & Bears' rescue team loaded up its rescue hauler and an additional horse trailer with transport cages and carrier crates, emergency capture drugs/equipment, water, IV fluids, first aid and medical supplies as well as a stockpile of emergency fire evacuation equipment (fire masks, boots, gloves, goggles) to help the Wildlife Waystation get their animals to safety.

Lockwood Animal Rescue Center and PETA also helped with evacuation efforts.

You can help by making an emergency donation to replenish and purchase additional supplies for this massive evacuation effort  by clicking here. Please include "fire" in the donation note field.

What Does it Take to Evacuate Big Cats & Bears During a Fire Emergency?

Being prepared is the first step in a smooth and safe evacuation. Transport cages are the "working horse" and lifeline at LTB’s sanctuary if an emergency disaster like a fire strikes.

Because a lion is NOT your typical house cat, you can't just load them up in a carrier crate and be on your way. Instead, LTB uses transport cages to safely contain our big cats and bears.

These transport cages are custom designed and include safety bars, a stationary water dish and even a "feed shoot" to drop diets into the cage. The transport cages are on wheels so we can easily roll the cage from the habitat to our rescue hauler. 

Transport cages are integral to the day to day care of our animals as well as when an emergency strikes. They cost around $6,000 apiece to build.


RESCUED CIRCUS LIONS COMING TO ALPINE: LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS SEEKS DONATIONS FOR NEW HABITATS

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By Miriam Raftery

February 24, 2017 (Alpine) — Lufuno, Arusha and Zulu were forced to perform in a famous traveling circus for many years.  But soon the trio of lions will have a new home at Lions, Tigers and Bears in Alpine.

Lufino, whose name means “good to love” in Swahili, is a 12-year-old white lion.  Arusha and Zulu are 14-year-old sisters who have been together their entire lives.

The circus owner has retired and agreed to never again work in the exotic animal entertainment industry, following laws to restrict use of animals in circuses and other entertainment venues.

“Lions, Tigers and Bears is committed to giving these lions a great home where they will be well-cared for…for the rest of their lives,” says Bobbi Brink, founder of LTB.

It will cost about $10,000 a year for each lion to provide basic care.  In addition, funds are needed for medical care and to build a new habitat, since the lions are currently in cages.

To donate, you can visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.

 

THE “MANE” EVENT: A BIRTHDAY PARTY AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS

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By Rebecca Jefferis Williamson

March 2, 2017 (Alpine) -- If a first responder does not already have Bobbi Brink, co-founder of Lions Tigers & Bears Exotic Animal Rescue Sanctuary in Alpine on speed dial they should consider it.  Why? Brink is accustomed to dealing with exotic animals and if a catastrophic event happens (flooding, wild fires plus).  Brink can show up and help handle the movement of that exotic animal. 

You sure you know all the types of animals your neighbors’ have?  No tiger cub stashed in the basement or backyard?  Think again. Owning exotic big cats is illegal in California, but still allowed in some other states—and owners have been known to transport contraband critters across state lines. 

“We work all over the states.  We work with first responders,” said Brink.  After all, not all cities have a zoo close enough to call for safe movement of lions, tigers and bears during an emergency.

That stated, on March 3rd a birthday party was held for some of Brink’ beloved animals, a lion and two lionesses:  Bakari, Jillian, and Suri to be exact, complete with gift boxes with meat presents inside. Rest assured it did not take long for these big cats to find and eat their presents. The meat presents were made up of chicken, beef, a little pork and vitamin supplements. 

According to Brink, Lions Tigers & Bears, on Martin Way off the Japatul Valley Road exit on Highway 8, was founded in 2002.  Alyssa Cantrell, a keeper, said the first bear was actually a mini-donkey named “Bear.”

“This was a cow pasture,” explained Brink of the now 93-acre sanctuary facility.  “We slowly rescued one animal at a time.” That sanctuary will soon include another pool and enclosure, currently under construction, to be opened in April 2017.

The sanctuary has grown to include lions, tigers, black bears, bobcats, a mountain lion, leopard, Himalayan black bears, a macaw, grizzly bears, chickens, sheep, goats, horses, llamas, a miniature donkey, peacocks, and a miniature horse. A white lion and two lionesses will be added soon. Volunteers help with all aspects of running this rescue home for neglected, abused, abandoned, and illegally kept exotic animals.  This is a no-breed sanctuary, where animals are treated with kindness and given as much space as possible to live out their lives.

Volunteer Sam Theodore, who works in safety and maintenance, added, “The lions going off” are part of the sounds to get used to when you work around these big cat--unlike getting used to the sound of copiers, keyboard typing, and phones going off in other instances.

The sanctuary offers memberships to help with the costs involved in running it. According to Brink they have 20,000 on their mailing lists. Adults are $38 for admission and $15 for kids. Donations are always welcome.

Brink knows the personal stories of the animals and can easily recount the conditions the exotic animals were saved from, be it neglect or being housed illegally.  Maverick, a tiger, came to the sanctuary after being taken away from a celebrity rapper.  Maverick’s story made the national news.

Maverick’s birthday party will be April 20th, another opportunity to watch an animal enjoy finding and opening their present.  In December a visitor can also watch more animals open their Christmas presents and there are multiple opportunities and events to attend.  Engaged couples can even tie the knot at the sanctuary.

If visitors wish to give the sanctuary a present and enjoy some unique entertainment, they can attend their biggest fundraiser held May 20th named “Casino Royale at the Ranch.”   The event will feature a catered meal, live music, casino games, a live silent auction, and entertainment. 

To learn more, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.

BABY BOBCAT RESCUED

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East County News Service

March 27, 2017 (Alpine) -- Lions, Tigers and Bears, an animal sanctuary in Alpine, has a new resident – a bouncing baby bobcat.

Weighing in at just 8 ounces, the rescued bobcat kitten is believed to be only about 10 days old.  The kitten was found near a neighborhood pool in Rancho Bernardo with no mother, so it was brought to a nearby pet hospital that in turn contacted Lions, Tigers and Bears.

The young bobcat is being bottle fed and doing well—but will require too much human contact to be returned to the wild, so he’ll becom e a permanent resident at Lions, Tigers and Bears.

Bobbie Brink, owner of the facility, reminds area residents that if you find a bobcat or other wild animal, it’s best to leave it alone and don’t touch it, even if it’s injured.

Instead, call a native species rehabilitation organization, or contact Lions and Tigers and Bears, so that the animal in need can be safely handled to maximize the chances that it can be returned to the wild.

You can visit www.LionsTigersandBears.org to view more photos of the baby bobcat and other animals, or to make a donation to help fund care for the bobcat kitten and other rescued animals.

A BEARY MERRY CHRISTMAS AT LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS IN ALPINE

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Bobbi Brink, founder of the rescue facility in Alpine (photo, left) works to save bears and other exotic animals from canned hunts and cub petting operations in U.S.

 

By Miriam Raftery

 

December 5, 2014 (Alpine) – East County Magazine stopped by  Lions, Tigers and Bears this week for a sneak-preview of the brand new bear enclosure that opens this Saturday, December 6th, at the rescue facility’s annual holiday party and fundraiser from 1 to 4 p.m.. 

We also got some up-close-and-personal looks at some of the big cats and bears who will be celebrating too—with Christmas trees, holiday packages to rip open and special foods for these special rescued animals—including Cherry Bomb, Teddy, Albert and Baloo —grizzly and Himalayan black bears who will be turned loose into their new two-acre home (albeit a temporary home while an even bigger two-acre preserve is built.)

The new habitat will include ponds, logs and trees for bears to swim, climb, scratch and play.  Brink led us inside the future bear home for a close-up look at the habitat. In addition to the newly rescued bears, Brink also hopes to introduce Meatball, a much-publicized black bear rescued  in Southern California. Meatball faced euthanasia had it not been for Brink taking in the young bear, which displayed Yogi and Boo Boo-style preferences for raiding campgrounds to savor campers' foods--including his namesake- meatballs.

The new bears were rescued after living in deplorable conditions in underground pits and a backyard zoo. In an exclusive interview with founder Bobbi Brink airing later today on KNSJ at 5 p.m., she discloses that rescued bears here were part of a “cub petting” operation in which tourists are charged to pet bear cubs. But when they get older many are sold off for “canned” hunts. The practice is similar to lion hunts exposed on a 60 Minutes Episode last week in South Africa. 

“The same thing is happening right here,” says Brink, who is pushing for legislation in Congress to ban the practice. “It’s not a sport to shoot an animal at close range that’s been bottle fed.”  Canned hunts remain legal even in California, as long as the hunter is at least 1,100 feet from his prey. In some states, animals are put in trailers or boxes to be shot.

Fortunately, the bears and other animals at Brink’s no-breed facility in Alpine have been spared that dire fate.  Here, you can see an array of exotic animals from the namesake lions and tigers to leopards, bobcats and even a mountain lion—and on Saturday, all will be frolicking as they celebrate the holiday festivities with the enrichment activities Brink and her merry team of elves are planning.

 “This year we are putting out an extra special request for donated Christmas Trees that we can give to the animals on this special day. Trees are an amazing form of enrichment for the animals,” says founder Bobbi Brink. (Click here to donate a tree.)

 “Join us on this exciting day and watch our bears romp, play and enjoy the rolling hills in this expansive new habitat,” says Brink.

You’ll be able to do holiday shopping at more than 40 vendor booths, enjoy food from Descanso Junction and kids can visit Santa Claus. (To buy tickets, click here.)

For more information on Lions, Tigers and Bears and how you can help enrich the lives of rescued animals at the nonprofit facility in Alpine, visit www.lionstigersandbears.org.

 

TIGER RESCUED FROM GREECE DIES IN ALPINE

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East County News Service

September 27, 2017 (Alpine)—Phevos, a  17-year-old tiger rescued from Greece and given refuge at Lions, Tigers and Bears in Alpine has died.

In an e-mail from LTB, founder Bobbie Brink states, “Phevos' health had been on a slow decline over the last two months.

He had progressively shown signs of pain and   became increasingly withdrawn from his normal interests and activities.  His appetite had steadily decreased, making our abilities to provide pain medication difficult, since medication was administered through his daily diet.” 

So the decision was made to humanely euthanize Phevos.  Brink adds, “Phevos was truly a tiger that defied all odds thrown his way.”

 Born in captivity and used in an Italian touring circus group, Phevos was seized with his mate Athena, and five other tigers, by Greek authorities in 2002. Phevos and Athena were sent to the Trikala Zoo, outside of Athens, Greece where they lived together until March 2014, when Athena passed away due to medical neglect. Athena had a gaping wound in her paw caused by a Christmas ornament that went untreated for over a year. With the economic crisis in Greece, conditions of the zoo deteriorated over time, making Phevos' rescue an urgent matter, as he was not receiving necessary care.

David Barnes, a UK citizen who initially helped place the two tigers at the Trikala Zoo, and who first brought the plight of Phevos to Brink’s attention, helped arrange the rescue that would bring this suffering tiger to Lions Tigers & Bears. Eight months after Athena's death, Phevos was rescued from the Trikala Zoo and brought to Lions Tigers & Bears. Phevos' rescue made international headlines, as he was "the tiger that travelled halfway across the world for a better life."

Brink concludes, “And a better life indeed is what Phevos received here at our sanctuary. Every effort was  made to ensure his comfort and restore his health.  

Phevos was a gentle giant, with a calm and reserved demeanor. He enjoyed sunning himself in the cool grass, lounging in the shallows of his pool and taking naps in his beds of hay. Phevos liked to spend time with Maverick, our two year old male tiger, as they would enjoy each other's company through their habitat fences.”

Donations to support the rescue operations of Lions, Tigers and Bears can be made at http://www.lionstigersandbears.org

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