THE MATTIE FUND
The Mattie Fund was created to help Mattie with
her medical condition and many
others who may need medical care in
the future.
This webpage last updated on
08/30/2007
(top, left) Mattie is prepared for her ultrasound by the vet
and Jonathan Kraft, our Founder and Director.
(top, right) Mattie is under anesthesia and monitored very closely
throughout her procedures.
(left) Several medical personnel are present during the ultrasound to
carefully watch Mattie's vital signs.
Mattie is a tiger cub obtained from a photo
opportunity company in December of 2006. These 7 tigers were
placed in one of the largest habitats in the park. Five of
these cubs were 8 months old and 2 of them were 4 months old when
they arrived at the sanctuary.
At 12 months of age we noticed Mattie having an equilibrium problem
which turned into seizures. The Animal Care Supervisor was
instructed to keep a close eye on Mattie. After being observed for a
period of time, the Director instructed that Mattie be taken to
Kingman Animal Hospital immediately. While animal care
specialists loaded her up, office staff called the veterinarian
clinic ahead
so that they could be prepared for Mattie's arrival. After
extensive tests, nothing irregular was found.
Mattie had no further seizures but continued to have an equilibrium
problem so additional tests would be required. A new set of tests
and previous tests were redone to verify there were no
abnormalities. The Director continued his pursuit of an answer to
Mattie's problem.
Mattie would be taken to Phoenix for a variety of tests including a
"full-body" ultrasound which verified her heart and other organs were fine and Mattie
appeared to be the healthiest tiger that ever existed. Mattie
is now 14 months old and she is still having problems. We are working
closely together with a team of veterinarians including the
USDA vet, a large feline specialist, to find out what is wrong with Mattie. Potential
neurological problems are suggested. Mattie is going to need many
more tests that are very costly including MRI and CAT scans. Please donate to help Mattie
live a full happy and healthy life!
Click here to donate
online!
