For some people, circuses are fascinating. These places showcase people performing extraordinary acts, like walking on thin wires and jumping from one hoop to another. They also exhibit animals playing tricks.

Despite the colorful and festive atmosphere of circus shows, they have a dark side.

Animal abuse is very common. Circus trainers use whips, muzzles, and tight collars to force animals to perform. In addition to the horrible training methods they use, the animals’ needs aren’t met most of the time.

Animal Defenders Incorporated is stepping up to help end animal cruelty in circuses.

When they received reports about two lions and nine tigers that are being held in a circus, they went to the place right away to rescue them. This happened after Guatemala decided to ban animal circuses.

Although they’ve seen a lot of abused animals, the lions’ conditions shocked them.

They found Tanya and Tarzan in an awful state. They bear the scars and deformities caused by their poor living condition.

Tarzan’s lip hangs from his jaw.

This resulted from a fight he had with a tiger back in the circus. The fight was so bad that Tanya had to step in to stop it. Despite her smaller size, she was able to save Tarzan.

The lion also had dental problems when he was rescued. Some of his teeth were smashed in the circus and they caused him so much pain. The veterinarians of ADI had to repair his teeth to make him feel better.

After the initial examination and treatment of the animals, ADI brought them to one of their enclosures.

It has enough space for the animals to wander around. Plus, they have people there who could help the lions recover and adapt to their new lives.

The process wasn’t easy.

Since the lions spent most of their lives in a small cage, they weren’t used to having so much space to roam around. The rescue team was fully aware of that so they didn’t rush the lions. They allowed them to be familiar and comfortable in their new home.

Having spent a lot of years together, Tarzan and Tanya showed pure love for each other.

They were always together. The lion would kiss Tanya good night. The lioness, on the other hand, was always there to defend her partner.

After they were able to regain their health, Tarzan and Tanya were transferred from Guatemala to South Africa.

Their trip took several days. It must have been uncomfortable for them, but they survived the most important journey of their lives.

When it was finally time for Tarzan to step out of his crate, he showed uncertainty.

He won’t leave his crate without his precious Tanya. Tarzan only stepped out after the rescue team screened the lioness from him.

After getting out of his travel crate, Tarzan started exploring his new environment.

Compared to his cage before, he now has a lot of land to walk on. With grass everywhere, it’s the closest to a lion’s natural habitat he could get.

Once Tanya was released, she immediately looked for Tarzan.

She was able to spot him right away. And after getting reunited, the lions finally settled in their new home.

The story of these lions warmed a lot of people’s hearts.

One of them commented:

“Tears of joy for the two love birds! Thank you for saving them and providing them with a beautiful forever home!❤️❤️”

Another one reacted:

“Theirs is the most heart breaking and heart warming story! I re watched their rescue footage like dozens of times! THANK YOU! Love you guys for your work and dedication..xoxoxox”

Animal cruelty is never alright, particularly if it’s triggered by people’s need for entertainment. Hopefully, animal abuse in circuses ends soon.

Watch the lions’ heartwarming story below!

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Source: Animal Channel, Animal Defenders International, YouTube