Poaching is the biggest threat to our wildlife.
We may have heard of the poaching of rhinoceroses or elephants or the trophy hunting of lions, but poaching happens worldwide.
According to the World Animal Foundation, animal poaching has become a lucrative black-market trade that earns $5-$23 billion annually.
This is why animal advocates are continually strengthening their measures to protect wildlife.
Organizations, foundations, and sanctuaries are made and built to continue the efforts of protecting and rescuing endangered animals.
Many of them are in South Africa, especially the famous Kruger National Park because this is where most endangered wildlife naturally lives.
The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo Province, South Africa, is one of the many wildlife conservation organizations.
They pour their efforts into rescuing and fostering rhinoceroses in the region, especially in caring for orphaned rhinos due to poaching.
They take the orphans in to help them recover from physical, emotional, and mental trauma.
These baby rhinos need special attention until they’re old enough to be released into a protected and controlled area where they are safe.
Jaime Traynor is a veterinary student and was a volunteer in the orphanage.
She has formed a special bond with the rhinos there, most especially with a baby rhino they recently rescued named Jamila.
The poor thing didn’t have her front horn anymore and had a big wound at her side, which they said was a hit formed with a machete by the poachers.
They assumed Jamila was trying to protect her mother.
Jamila loved lying down on Jaime’s lap. Such a big baby. Literally.
Whenever Jamie would go near, she would bump her head onto her legs to signal that she wanted some pets or belly rubs.
The moment Jamie sits on the ground, Jamila goes near her, drops her head, and lies on her lap.
But Jaime wasn’t the only one that Jamila grew close to.
Since Jamila was a small rhino, she had more encounters with humans as she explored and played around the orphanage.
She also made a friend with Mewie, Jaime’s cat.
Mewie decided she loved to babysit Jamila, too, if that was the only way she could spend time with her new bestie.
They did many things together, which is how they grew closer.
They take walks together and even run around and chase each other when they’re up for it.
And when it’s time for sleep, trust that Mewie is right beside her best friend.
It was heartwarming to see how Jamila loved this orange tabby’s company.
They’re an unlikely pair, but it’s beautiful, nonetheless.
Taking care of baby rhinos is a lot of work.
Jaime said that gaining their trust is very important, especially since humans (poachers) made them orphans at a young age.
Their first step after rescue is to calm the rhinos down, get them the proper nutrition, and earn their trust.
Having a pet like Mewie made that easier for Jamie.
Watch the full story in the video below and help support The Rhino Orphanage by donating, volunteering, or adopting.
