Cosmopolitan

10.02.97 - 9.24.05

Cosmopolitan, our beloved Bengal Tiger, started to become ill in early September of 2005. After two weeks of daily testing, and medication changes, it was decided to sedate Cosmo for a closer look. A team of three veterinarians were called in, and a plan was made. Within 24 hours, a massive effort was made to get everything ready. A makeshift examination/ surgical room was created. Roger Gonzales built an examination table, and a platform to carry Cosmo once sedated with a Bobcat. Lt. Leslie Kastner of the Southwest Ranches Fire Dept's Large Animal Rescue Unit, provided all the necessary equipment for safely moving Cosmo, and Jim Brunner of Natural Wonders Landscaping brought his Bobcat and carried Cosmo from his habitat to the examination room. The veterinarians arrived with a portable sonogram and numerous other medical equipment. A nearby animal clinic offered it's services to run all medical tests in their lab. For all involved, it was the most flawless operation that any had ever been part of. Unfortunately, Cosmo was diagnosed with kidney failure, and was about to enter the very worst suffering that the disease has to offer. Cosmo was euthanized to prevent that horrible suffering. Cosmo passed while surrounded by 12 people who held hands and said prayers from their own beliefs. Catholics, Protestants, Hebrews, Jehovah's Witness', and Lakota Indians were all well represented. With 24 hands resting on his body, Cosmo passed in a loving and peaceful way that everyone should hope that they would be able to do so as well.

Cosmo leaves behind his sister Tawny, who he lived with since birth. Cosmo was always the protector, with Tawny being the shy one. When guests were at the Sanctuary, it was Tawny who would hide, and Cosmo who would venture out and investigate what was going on. While they were adults, they always slept curled up together just like when they were cubs. The staff has made great efforts to visit with Tawny even more than usual to keep her spirits up and provide the company that she misses. After Cosmo's passing, testing was immediately run on Tawny to ensure that the kidney problem wasn't genetic. Tawny tested fine, and has remained in good health.

2005 has by far been the hardest year for the Destiny staff: one tropical storm, two hurricanes (Wilma being almost catastrophic for the sanctuary), and the deaths of Taz and Cosmo. Victoria Conzonetta, who shared a relationship with Cosmo that only a few big cat handlers ever get to has been devestated. The bond between the two was very strong, and usually had people "in the know" quite jealous.

About Bengal Tigers

The Bengal or Indian tiger, Panthera Tigris, has the most abundant population in the wild, with estimates placed around 3,000. Although they are the most numerous in the wild, they are still considered endangered and like the four other tiger subspecies, are faced with the threat of extinction. Originally there were eight subspecies of tiger; we are now left with only five. The five remaining subspecies are the Bengal, Siberian, Indochinese, Sumatran and South China. The Bali, Caspian and Javan are now considered to be extinct. As the world grows the tiger's land deteriorates leaving them with little land and nothing to prey upon. Conservation efforts are our only hope to keep these beautiful beings alive in nature.