A Shocking Discovery
Asha, a nine-month-old Bengal tiger, weighed only about 30 pounds, the typical size of a three-month-old cub. Her alarming condition was discovered by Vicki Keahey of In-Sync Exotics, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and caring for big cats.
A Heartbreaking Past
Through investigation, Keahey uncovered Asha’s tragic history. The cub had been part of a traveling circus, where she was kept with a much larger tiger who bullied and terrorized her.
Asha’s small body was covered in bald patches, and her skin was dry, cracked, and bleeding. A visit to the veterinarian revealed she was suffering from ringworm and multiple open wounds, which Keahey suspected were caused by the larger tiger.
Beginning the Road to Recovery
Asha was moved to an isolated enclosure at In-Sync Exotics where her long recovery journey began. Keahey devoted herself to Asha’s treatment, ensuring the cub received the care, medicine, and attention she needed to heal. As her health improved, Asha’s personality began to shine through.
A New Love for Water
Part of Asha’s emotional healing included discovering her love for water, something Keahey believes she had once feared. She provided a small tub for Asha to splash around in and would playfully spray her with a hose, building trust and encouraging joyful behavior.
Within eight months, Asha’s transformation was extraordinary. She grew into a strong, healthy, and confident tiger. The team at In-Sync Exotics decided it was the right time to introduce her to another tiger to observe her social behavior.
Meeting Smuggler
They chose Smuggler, a male tiger three times her size, who immediately showed affection toward her. Seeing their connection, Keahey believed Asha could thrive alongside the bigger male. Supervised “dates” began, allowing the two tigers to interact safely and form a bond.
A Thriving Partnership
Eventually, Asha and Smuggler were placed in the same enclosure, where they continue to flourish together. Today, Asha, still only half Smuggler’s size, is a confident, playful adult tiger.
A Beautiful Testament to Healing
Asha’s journey from a neglected, malnourished cub to a vibrant tiger living happily with a companion is a powerful reminder of how transformative proper care, compassion, and a second chance can be.
