In a critical rescue effort, seven tigers have been removed from unsafe conditions and relocated to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR), where they will receive lifelong care in a secure and natural environment.
The tigers are being relocated to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) in Eureka Springs, Arkansas—one of ten fully accredited big cat sanctuaries under the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) in North America. TCWR has a proven track record of providing lifelong care for abused and neglected big cats, offering them spacious natural habitats, expert veterinary attention, and a chance to heal from years of mistreatment with specialized care and enrichment. The newly arrived tigers will now be part of TCWR’s Witness Protection Program, which safeguards rescued animals by keeping their locations confidential when necessary for their safety.
“Providing these tigers with a safe, species-appropriate home is our top priority,” said Tanya Smith, President of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. “Our team is committed to ensuring they receive the best possible care and a peaceful, stable environment for the rest of their lives.”
This seizure underscores the commitment of local authorities and animal welfare organizations to uphold animal welfare laws and ensure the safety of both the public and the animals involved. In addition, this case highlights the ongoing need for stricter enforcement of federal, state, and county wildlife laws and underscores the critical role that sanctuaries like TCWR play in ensuring rescued big cats have a safe, ethical future.
The animals will remain in Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Witness Protection and Rescue Program, where our focus will be only on their animal welfare and veterinary care. TCWR cannot comment on the case at this time due to the protection of these animals. If you would like to support their care, please visit
https://turpentinecreek.app.neoncrm.com/forms/witness-protection.
For more information, visit www.turpentinecreek.org or contact us at (479) 253-5841.
