Rescued Baby Lion Cannot Sleep Without His Cherished Blanket Even Though He Is Fully Grown

All wild animals should be allowed to roam freely in the wild rather than being kept imprisoned in small enclosures. However, we are far from that scenario, as countless creatures are forced to spend wretched lives far from their natural habitats. Many of these creatures are being rescued just in time, thanks to some compassionate animal lovers. Vicky Keahey, the creator of the In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center, is one of these generous people. Lambert, a gorgeous stately lion, is one of the many creatures Vicky and her dedicated staff have saved over the years.

Lambert was in critical condition when his rescuers discovered him in 2014. Because of malnutrition, the poor tiny soul resembled a frail puppy rather than the strong lion he should have been. The lion cub was unlawfully purchased by a ruthless man who kept him as a pet until deciding he no longer wanted the wild beast. “The previous owners illegally obtained him as a pet for their young children,” Angela Culver, media director at In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue, told Bored Panda. “After a short time, the family decided they couldn’t keep him, so we were contacted and asked if we could take him, which we gladly did.”

Lambert was bewildered and afraid when he arrived at the rescue facility, but his routine quickly stole everyone’s heart. The lion cub apparently sought comfort in a blanket and couldn’t sleep without it. “We had heard from previous owners that he slept in the bed with the grandfather,” Vicky explained to The Dodo. “So I went into the enclosure, got him a blanket, and placed it in one of the corners.” He cuddled up on that blanket and promptly fell asleep. I’ve always given him a blanket since then.”

Lambert has made a full recovery thanks to the efforts of the rescue team, and he is now unrecognizable. Despite getting back on track, the now adult lion remains at the center since he would perish in the wild. Lambert, although being a fully grown lion, still requires a blanket to snuggle in before going to bed.

“He has 7,000 sq. ft. worth of space to run around in, which includes a covered den area for shade and protection from the weather and a sunny, grassy playground with the pool he loves to play in,” Angela Culver said. “He is just like any other 2 year-old lion in that he is active and playful, and is full of cattitude. You know where you stand with him.”