ALPINE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — With a heavy heart, Lions Tigers & Bears, a San Diego animal sanctuary located in Alpine, is mourning the loss of their beloved White Lion, Lufuno, or Louie for short, according to a press release from the sanctuary on Wednesday.
After eight years under the care of the sanctuary, Louie was humanely laid to rest Wednesday morning after experiencing age-related health issues in recent years, such as chronic arthritis, extreme back pain and increasing immobility. He was born on Jan. 21, 2005.
The name Lufuno translates to “good to love” in Swahili, which was fitting for Louie, considering his background, a true testament to resilience and courage.
In April 2017, Louie and two other lions (Zulu and Arusha) were rescued after their private trainer, who used the animals as performers in movies, television, and circus acts, relinquished the trio to the sanctuary.
After years of performing in captivity, Louie was introduced to his new natural habitat, a spacious area filled with plenty of room to roam alongside his lion companions, as sanctuary staff worked to ensure a smooth transition.
When Louie was rescued, his trainer signed a contract with the sanctuary, stating that the trainer will not purchase or own any more big cats and will not train others to become big cat trainers.
“Over time, with patience, space, and love, we watched him reclaim his wild spirit,” Bobbi Brink, Founder and Director of Lions Tigers & Bears, said in the press release. “He became the protector he was always meant to be. This decision is heartbreaking, but it is the most compassionate choice for him now. We are grateful to have been part of his second chance.”
Staff at the sanctuary also made the conscious decision not to neuter Louie when he arrived, so that his luxurious mane would continue to grow.
Lions, Tigers & Bears is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2002. The 142-acre ranch in Alpine houses over 60 big cats, bears and other exotic animals. You can make donations to the sanctuary here.
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