ALPINE, Calif. -- Two animals rescued from a now-closed roadside zoo in South Carolina have found a new home at the Lions Tigers and Bears Sanctuary in Alpine.
The potbelly pig and coatimundi arrived at the sanctuary just 24 hours ago, marking the beginning of their new life in San Diego County.
According to sanctuary staff, both animals are still adjusting to their new surroundings. The potbelly pig, while initially shaking, has shown positive signs of adaptation.
"I saw the tail wagging, that's a good sign," noted Bobbi Brink, Lions Tigers & Bears Founder.
The coatimundi, an endangered species that is part of the raccoon family, is known for being very active in its natural habitat.
The animals were rescued from the now-shuttered Waccatee Zoo in South Carolina, which had been the subject of a lawsuit by PETA. The animal rights group alleged that the zoo denied adequate shelter and food to its animals.
As part of the settlement, PETA reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture cited the roadside zoo for several violations, resulting in thousands of dollars in fines. PETA has rescued 12 animals from the zoo, with two now residing at Lions Tigers and Bears Sanctuary, accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.
The settlement includes a permanent ban on the defendants from owning or exhibiting wild or exotic animals or any species protected by the Endangered Species Act (ESA), along with strict limits on owning domesticated animals.
The animals just arrived and have had a visual check but will soon undergo a medical exam. They will stay in a 30-day quarantine period, during which they will receive medical examinations and fecal matter will be tested for any parasites or viruses.
After this period, the coatimundi will be released into an adapted enclosure.
"We just slowly work day by day, lots of TLC and lots of love to build up their trust," said Brink.
The potbelly pig will eventually be introduced to Penelope, the sanctuary's resident potbelly pig, providing a new companionship opportunity.
The Lions Tigers and Bears Sanctuary is seeking donations to help build the coatimundi's new habitat. They currently have more than 60 animals on their property. Interested individuals can contribute and visit the sanctuary to see the animals in their new home.