Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary; tigers recovering after medical concerns
KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
STE. GENEVIEVE COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — UPDATE: Shakira, is showing steady improvement after several days of illness, caretakers said Friday, September 5, 2025.
After spending about five days indoors, Shakira was allowed access to her outdoor yard again. Staff said she has been eating well, taking medication and showing signs of increased strength over the past two days.
Caretakers said they will continue to closely monitor her condition but remain optimistic about her recovery.
Two tigers at the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary are recovering after recent medical concerns, according to staff and veterinarians overseeing their care.
Keepers at the facility said they noticed a lump on the roof of Sebastian’s mouth, behind his right canine tooth, during a routine visual exam. After consulting with Dr. Jones and the team at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, veterinarians determined surgery was needed to remove as much of the mass as possible and provide relief while he eats.
The procedure was performed earlier this week. Sanctuary staff said immobilization went smoothly, the mass was successfully reduced, and samples have been sent for testing. Sebastian is now recovering, eating more comfortably, and “resting well,” according to staff updates. Test results are expected next week.
While Sebastian recovers, staff also reported concerns for another tiger, Shakira. Caretakers said they first noticed Thursday that she was lethargic, reluctant to move and uninterested in eating. Over several days, Shakira received injectable antibiotics, showing only slight improvement until earlier this week.
By Wednesday, staff said, Shakira had begun eating again and taking oral medication, a sign of progress. “She isn’t out of the woods yet, but she is making good progress,” the sanctuary said in a statement, adding that she is moving more easily and appears more alert.
Sanctuary staff thanked supporters for their encouragement and asked the public to “keep Shakira in your thoughts” as her recovery continues.
Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary is still subject to close Fall of 2025.
Related links: Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary to close after two decades of big cat rescue – KBSI FOX23 News Cape Girardeau News | Paducah News
