Ruben, The World’s Lonliest Lion was just saved and brought into a Sanctuary
In case you’re just a bit unfamiliar with this story, a15 year-old Lion, Ruben, was left at an abandoned zoo out in Armenia. He was left there for just about five years. He was the only animal remaining after said private zoo had closed down; all of the other animals had found homes in other areas and zoos.
However, none of them ever seemed to have room for Ruben the Lion. Well, just this past August (2023), Ruben’s life was finally changed for the better as he was rescued and brought to a Sanctuary that literally saved him, out in South Africa.
Ruben, the World’s Loneliest Lion, was saved and brought to a wonderful Sanctuary out in South Africa, where his life has officially changed for the better!
According to the wonderful organization that saved him, the Animal Defenders International (ADI), Ruben was left alone in a concrete cell for the five years that he was left abandoned. Because of this, his muscle tone and mobility severely decreased over time. With each day, month, and year that passed by, the lion was deteriorating due to malnutrition and severe lack of exercise; given that he is such a huge animal, these two things, proper nutrition and exercise, are very crucial.
The President of ADI, Jan Creamer, stated that because Lions are the most social of all of the big cats, that poor Ruben must’ve been so sad not being able to communicate with any other lions.
With the help of ADI, as well as Qatar Airways Cargo, Ruben was able to make the 5,200 mile flight over to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary out in Free State, South Africa; not only was the flight arranged, but don’t worry, Ruben did arrive there on time and, most importantly, safely.
After being examined by some excellent veterinary staff, Ruben’s part of the Sanctuary was built with all sorts of different ramps, guard rails, and other aids in order to help him move around more independently. He has such great determination to walk again and continued to amaze all of the Sanctuary staff on a literal day-to-day basis. When he walked on grass again, after being stuck with nothing but concrete beneath his feet, Ruben was finally home.
He was finally able to socialize with other Lions; when it comes to his roar, the staff over at ADI say that his ‘morning calls’ keep getting louder and louder as he is working on getting his roar back. He is also regaining tons of confidence. Prior to coming over to ADI, Ruben was very fearful as he had been left alone for all that time. Thanks to those that rescued him, he fears no more!
While he still has quite the long road to recovery, Ruben is still amazing staff and even himself each and every day. Even though he does fall and get just a bit unsteady at times, he always just seems to pick himself back up, start over, and continue on. He is nothing short of a hero.
The ADI Wildlife Sanctuary is 455 acres big and houses 32 other rescued Lions and Tigers.
Check out more of ADI’s content and Ruben updates on all of their socials, including YouTube!
We can all learn just a little something from Ruben! We love you, big boy – keep on fighting!
More. This rescue dog survived a crushed spine and still refuses to give up. light
What do you think of Ruben’s story? Share any other inspirational animal stories you have with us! Let’s all send some well wishes and a speedy, but meaningful recovery Ruben’s way. Remember to never give up and always live your life just like Ruben would!