Skinny Lion Cub Saved From Cruel Zoo Shows

Story By: Gheorghi CaraseniSub Editor:  Joseph GolderAgency: Newsflash

Newsflash/Center VELES

This is the moment a skinny lion cub enjoys a meat feast as it recovers from the abuse suffered by a cruel photographer and zoo performances.

The Veles wildlife rehabilitation centre in the north-western Russian city of Saint Petersburg said they bought the lioness for 60,000 RUB (656 GBP) to save it from further cruelty.

The lion, which was allegedly abused by a photographer and used in zoo shows in the resort city of Sochi on the Black Sea, is nine months old but appears much younger as it only weighs 22.5 kilogrammes (50 lbs).

The cute lioness, named Kiara, was abandoned by the photographer when it fell ill and was later taken to a local zoo which used it in shows, according to reports.

Newsflash/Center VELES

Kiara’s story was shared on social media and the Veles centre decided to buy the animals to spare it further suffering.

Veles spokeswoman Natalya Bondarenko told Newsflash: “We bought it for 60,000 RUB (656 GBP) and Kiara is now being looked after by staff members.

“The animal is very thin, but at least it has a good appetite and we hope it recovers soon.”

According to Natalya, the animal will probably remain in their centre as they have another two lions and they are considering growing the pride.

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