An Australian Shepherd named Blakely raised five orphaned cheetah cubs, showing that dogs can do incredible things. The tiny cubs had little chance of survival since their mother passed away soon after giving birth. But thanks to Blakely, they got a new chance at life!
The five cubs, three boys, and two girls were born at Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Cheetah Breeding Facility in Ohio. Their mother, Willow, lived there most of the time. Sadly, she passed away a few weeks after giving birth.
The staff knew it would be very hard, but they tried their best to save the cubs. During their first weeks, the cubs needed to stay close to their mother. The staff moved them to the nursery, where they got top-notch medical care and were fed around the clock.
But keeping their body temperature steady was a big challenge. They needed the warmth of their mother, and that’s when Blakely stepped in!
Blakely is like a therapy dog and has been at the facility since he was rescued from a shelter at seven months old. The Australian Shepherd had experience with similar situations. He had been a support dog for another cheetah who had lost her young and had even comforted a calf.
When Blakely first met the cubs, they connected right away. The little ones loved climbing on and cuddling with Blakely, who gave them the warmth of a mother.
Though they get along well, Blakely only visits the cubs twice a day. The rest of the time, the staff makes sure they get enough food and rest.
Nonetheless, the loving dog will continue to be there for the cubs as they grow. Dawn Strasser, head nursery keeper at the zoo, says, “As the cubs grow, Blakely’s role in their development will evolve from a climbable buddy and furry warm body to teacher and role model.”
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