Typically, when cats and dogs get together there’s bound to be trouble but that couldn’t be further from the truth at San Diego Zoo, where a cheetah and a dog have become inseparable friends.
This unusual friendship began as part of a program at the zoo which encouraged the two to be raised together as ambassador animals. This program was created so that they could provide companionship to one another and help each other stay calm in public settings.
“We wanted them to have that bond from the very early stages and it’s worked exactly how we had dreamed it would,” said Janet Rose- Hinostroza – Animal Training Supervisor.
‘Raina’ the ridgeback dog and ‘Ruuxa’ the cheetah have been as thick as thieves from the very beginning, always out wrestling, running and playing at the zoo – but it hasn’t always been easy.
As Ruuxa began to develop, the staff noticed a slight bowing in his front legs. Sure enough, after tests and x-rays, the veterinarians could see that Ruuxa had what they call a ‘valgus abnormality’ which meant that the growth of his front limbs would be affected.
To have any chance and correcting the growth and improving his strength the vets needed to operate.
From there it was a waiting game and everyone was eager to see how Ruuxa would cope.
“Raina was right by Ruuxa’s side through the entire thing. She really helped him through it. We were afraid that they weren’t going to be able to socialize for a few weeks because we wanted to be cautious… but we couldn’t keep Raina away. She was always very cautious of his bandaged legs… and in the end, she really stimulated his recovery” said Ms. Rose- Hinostroza.
Today, Ruuxa is a happy, healthy and vibrant young cheetah with all the energy in the world and no limitations. This is certainly in part to the enormous support he received from his best friend Raina.
“His name is Somali and it means spirit and this little cheetah cub has shown that he has great spirit and great heart in everything he does. There hasn’t been any challenge that he hasn’t met or even surpassed, he’s traveled to spread conservation messages, he’s a fantastic runner, he loves meeting people. We continue to be inspired every day.”
We certainly hope the adorable companionship lasts for many more years to come!
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