Gage and Sybre came to Safe Haven Rescue Zoo in June, 2012 from an Ohio facility that was facing financial difficulties and new legislation restricting private ownership of wild animals. There were 11 tigers, 6 lions, 4 cougars and a black bear that needed new homes and Safe Haven worked with a handful of organizations to make this happen. One of the objectives in placing the animals was to keep social groups as intact as possible and Gage and Sybre had been best friends for a long time.
Safe Haven, recognizing the importance of relationship and emotional bonds among its sanctuary residents, was quick to accept both. The 2000 mile trip from Ohio was uneventful but the bear that shared the ride (on his way to Lions Tigers & Bears in San Diego) was a little apprehensive.