KWS RESCUES CHEETAH AFTER WOMAN RAISES IT AS A PET FOR 2 YEARS

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has shared the successful rescue and relocation of a stranded cheetah from a homestead in Kursi Village, Garissa County, following a compassionate act by a local woman.

The story began nearly two years ago when the woman rescued a stranded cheetah cub. She took the animal into her home, raising it as her own by feeding, bathing, and even leashing it like a household pet.

Through its Community & Wildlife Service Division, KWS was alerted to this unique situation. While commending the woman’s noble intentions, KWS officers explained that the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (WCMA) prohibits the keeping of wildlife as pets.

“We deeply appreciate the Good Samaritan’s compassion and remind all Kenyans that true coexistence means protecting wildlife where they belong, in the wild. The cheetah was safely taken in by KWS officers and handed over to our veterinary team, who conducted a full health check to ensure it was in good condition, collected samples for laboratory testing, and administered treatment for parasite control,” said KWS. 

The cheetah is now under expert care at the Nairobi Safari Walk, “the cheetah continues to thrive as part of our conservation and education efforts.”