We find the most unlikely friendships on this planet whether it is between fellow human beings or two very different species. For example, who would imagine a Bengal tiger cub and a puppy would become chums? It seems circumstances can put unlikely beings together allowing them to interact and forge relationships. When Hunter the Bengal Tiger cub and Chelsea the German Pointer puppy crossed paths at an animal sanctuary in South Africa they became fast friends. (1)

Tiger And Puppy Become Best Friends

This cuddly pair met at the Farm Inn Wildlife animal sanctuary in Pretoria, South Africa. The keepers removed the unfortunate cub from its mother as she showed signs of aggression towards him. Hunter was born at the sanctuary and is now under the care of Anthea Michaletos. (1)

Tiger Cub Rejected By Mother

“We believe that Hunter was born at a time when the female must have felt compromised in some way as she rejected him,” says Anthea. Although it might seem cruel to take the cub away from his mother, the keepers at the sanctuary felt it was necessary to intervene to protect Hunter from harm. (1)

Puppy And Tiger Enjoying Roughhousing

Chelsea the puppy is almost a month older than Hunter and they hit it off right away. The two have become rather rowdy companions that are now inseparable. Anthea says when Chelsea is released from his cage he heads right for Hunter. They enjoy rough play like little furry wrestlers with Chelsea usually pushing Hunter and Hunter leaping over him. (1)

This type of play is good for Hunter since he doesn’t have the benefit of interacting with siblings. Chelsea provides the same healthy interaction other cubs would offer. (1)

Development Of Tiger Cub

Companionship plays an important role in the development of many animal species. Chelsea is sad when the two are separated. For now, the pair can interact and play together safely. Unfortunately, once Hunter is six months old the two will be separated permanently to protect Chelsea from the stronger tiger cub. (1)

The way the two play often sees Hunter going for Chelsea’s throat, a sign that eventually Hunter will try to put Chelsea down. However, for now, even during their rowdiest play, Chelsea seems quite content. If Chelsea cries out, the watchful humans know Hunter is injuring him. Luckily, this has not been the case so far. (1)

Protecting Animals Born In Captivity

The practice of saving babies from their mothers when born in captivity is not unusual. Many species become aggressive towards their offspring, often killing and even eating them. When the mother shows signs of rejecting the baby, there’s a greater chance it will be harmed or killed.  Keepers make the tough decision to intervene and separate the child from its mother. Although this might seem cruel, it will ensure the baby’s safety.  (2)

In the case of Hunter, he has found a better life and a happy friendship with Chelsea. The friendship will help him develop to the next stage of what will hopefully prove to be a long and healthy life.