We often look at animals as sticking to their own species, but you might be surprised with how well animals can get along, even when they are mixed together. As you will see in this story, it is not only possible for animals to get along, at times, it can even make a difference in their survival.
Tigers can be found in many parts of the world but unfortunately, they have been disappearing and their numbers are dwindling. A wildlife reserve in Slovakia is taking matters into their own hands by keeping a number of these large cats safe. It is the Oasis of the Siberian Tiger Reserve, and they are doing something quite interesting with these big cats. They are raising them with German shepherds and you will be amazed with the results!
The tigers and cubs are brought together when they are quite young. They play together nicely, although it is true that the cubs can get a little rough because of the way that they play. Even though that is the case, there have not been any reported injuries since this experiment began. The loyalty of the German Shepherd makes a fine quality for the partnership and they “protect” the tigers as a result. The dogs and tigers develop strong friendships and become a family.
The dogs also benefit from the union, because the tigers bathe them by licking. The lion cub on the reserve, Sunny, stays with her mother and she has become quite close to the German Shepherd puppies, Blacky, Jenny and Hugo
It is not only Sunny who enjoys playing with the puppies, the mother enjoys playing with them as well! When they play together, you can see that both the tigers and the German shepherds are being diligent not to harm the other. There is no denying the love that they have for each other and the friendship that is forming.
This type of interspecies relationship is becoming increasingly popular. It has been discovered that, aside from being adorable, raising different species together can even help to save lives. Saving tigers is especially important, because poaching is still a problem.
When tigers are raised together with dogs in a closed environment, it helps to ensure their safety and protection. It is hoped that this will help tigers to regain some of their numbers.
As you can clearly see from the pictures, the experiment of raising tiger cubs with German Shepherds is quite a success. Looking through these pictures helps to give you a feel for what is taking place behind the scenes and you can envision the bond that is developing between these animals.
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