In Memory ~ October 2007
For the Love of Levi
Levi’s friends and caretakers helped him pass over in the fall of 2007. His legs really gave out and it came to the point he could barely walk. His kidneys and liver were also compromised. He was ready, we were not – but we respected his wishes. He was a majestic and wise man and will forever be with us. He shared so much of his strength with us.
Levi, who was of the oldest residents at the Wildcat Sanctuary, has passed over the rainbow bridge. He is now in a place where he can run without pain, his spirit guides beside him, a place where he can truly be wild at heart.
Levi was the first cougar to find a home at TWS, and the story of his beginnings is unfortunately yet another tragic one.
He was rescued from one terrible abuse situation and placed into another. Luckily, The Wildcat Sanctuary rescued him and gave him a safe haven.
Somehow Levi knew he’d landed in the right place. Over many years of care, he became able to open his heart again. He was very patient with every move, from Georgia to Minnesota, Isanti to Sandstone, from one spot to next.
In Isanti, he became more curious, meeting up with Max in the next enclosure. He’d peek around the corner to sneak a glimpse of Meme the tiger. He would listen quietly when someone read to him.
In Sandstone, he loved to sit under his favorite tree and watch the goings-on. He was especially on alert when the food bucket came around, even if he’d already had his share!
Unfortunately, the original abuse had taken a toll on his body. He had always had trouble with his back and legs, but he started to have extreme difficulty walking. We do not always have the chance to let them choose when it is their time, but Levi let us know and allowed us to give him the dignity he deserved in his passage.
