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Baby Cheetah And Shelter Puppy Are Being Raised In The Same Enclosure

Written by: Julie Hunt
Julie Hunt is an avid dog lover and writer for iHeartDogs.com, and has a background as a veterinary technician. She rescued a beautiful former bait dog named Rory.Read more
| Published on December 12, 2023

In a world where negative news is shared way too often, stories like this one will uplift your spirit and warm your heart and soul. The unlikely friendship between a cheetah and a puppy may seem peculiar, yet these inseparable companions have shared their lives since the age of two months. Residing in the same enclosure at the Richmond Metro Zoo in Virginia, they spend their days playing and cuddling. In 2015, a female cheetah at the zoo gave birth to three cubs, but one struggled due to the mother’s milk deficiency.

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The cub, Named Kumbali, was separated to receive bottle feeding from caring zookeepers. While considering his future, the zoo faced the challenge of reintegrating him into his cheetah family without risking harm. The solution came in an unconventional but successful practice – pairing cheetah babies with dogs. After careful consideration, Kago, a puppy with a challenging past, joined the zoo. The introduction proved more than successful, and the duo, Kumbali, and Kago, became fast friends, exploring life together.

         

Their bond deepened with time, offering a unique and heartwarming connection. As they continue to enjoy life together, the extraordinary pair of cheetah and dog cherish each moment, uncertain of what the future holds but content in their companionship. Their story is too sweet to miss. To meet Kumbali and her best friend Kago, play the video below!

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Feature image courtesy of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium/Facebook

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