On July 9, 2008, Panther Ridge lost a special friend and teacher
Zeus, our magnificant Jaguar.  As the evening set the loss of our
kindred spirit Zeus was so powefully felt - a stillness and
solemnenss blanketed the property.  Though 22 cats remained,
what was felt, was the loss of Zeus's energy that had so filled
the air.  As his brother Aztec called out for him , Amos
announced the loss and the others remained silent in respect, we
said goodbye to a Great One.

 

Three years ago, Zeus and his brother Aztec joined the Panther
Ridge family.  They came from a roadside circus, where they had
lived in a 10 x 20 concrete cage with no enrichment.  When they
arrived at Panther Ridge, Zeus's hind legs were so weak having
walked on concrete that he could hardly handle the slight incline
of his enclosure.  But it wasn;t long before he ran and jumped.
His strength and power often left us in awe, and his beauty was
often described as "god's best paint job"!   Zeus could bring a
smile to even the most stoic of visitors. 

Two years ago when a pool was built in his enclosure, we teared
with joy as we watched Zeus do what jaguars so instinctfully dove into the water!! As he entered the pool that first time, he looked back at us with pure gratitude and appreciation - as if he were saying "all this for me?!"  He so loved to jump in the pool after his fish treats.  He never got tired of hearing the giggles of children as he held his breath and dove for frozen fisn - he got more excited as children would cheer him on.

 

Nine months ago, Zeus showed signs of a brain tumor.  With the
guidance of our vet, we medically managed the condition as best
as possible, knowing that saying farewell to Zeus was in the near
future.  in spite of his illness, he greeted everyday with enthusiasm and vigor -.never a complaint. What a world this would be if we could only learn this lesson.  Even as his illness progressed - he faced everday with dignity and the truimph of spirit.

 

Zeus, may your spirit return to the jungle.  May you run and hunt
and swim.  Zeus, we are that much better for having known you. 

 

- by Felicia Serpico 2008