Simba is back with Rey Ayacucho at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary after a stay at Old Chapel Veterinary Clinic and the boys were clearly delighted to see each other today! Inseparable since their rescue by ADI from a small circus cage in Peru eleven years ago, there was a lot of head rubbing, kissing, and nuzzling as the two senior citizens (both over 17 years old) were reunited.

Simba was taken into hospital after suffering occasional nosebleeds. After several days of observation there were no further nosebleeds, so Dr Caldwell sedated him for a thorough physical examination yesterday. He found a large soft tissue mass that could be causing the nosebleeds, but it is not something which can be tackled clinically. Simba’s long-term issues remain, he is elderly now, with chronic health issues related to his former circus life, including arthritis and spondylosis of the neck. Dr Caldwell confirmed that Simba will continue to need close monitoring but for now he has a quality of life and should return to his home in the Guibord-Sprague Habitat with brother Rey, to enjoy their golden years. It’s certainly good to have him back and a huge relief – and we think Rey Ayacucho agrees!

Please don’t forget there’s still time to donate to our Halloween treats fundraiser for spooky catnip sacks, boxes and other treats for the lions and tigers. Watch out for our videos as Halloween really kicks off at ADIWS in the coming days https://www.facebook.com/donate/2349612308788725

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