Dr. Phil Zeltzman’s Blog

I was very fortunate to recently visit South Africa and Zimbabwe after a veterinary conference. Since 100% of the pet owners we meet are animal lovers, I thought I would share some information and pictures about his incredible trip.

Malema’s skills as a tracker were hard to comprehend.

He seemed to read Nature, animal tracks and broken branches like an open book.

(please be aware that some pictures and the description are not for the faint of heart...)

Despite the density of the bush, somehow, Malema spotted the carcass of a wildebeest, and next to him, a resting lion.

It seemed like the lion just had breakfast.

And like a house cat, he was now taking a nap.

The wildebeest - a large African antelope - served as a vivid reminder of the circle of life, hidden in a bush near the lion.

The lion, seemingly oblivious to our presence, let out a low, rumbling purr, a contented sigh after a successful hunt.

We were mesmerized, a few feet away from this apex predator, witnessing a raw, intimate moment in the wild.

Malema whispered that this was a rare opportunity.

Lions often rest after a large meal, becoming lethargic and less wary of their surroundings.

We sat in awestruck silence.

The only sound was the lion's gentle breathing and purring.

As we slowly backed away, leaving the lion to his nap, a profound sense of humility washed over us.

This was a reminder of the delicate balance of nature, the intricate web of life and death that unfolds in the African savanna.

We had witnessed a fleeting glimpse into the lion's world, an experience that would forever be etched in our memories.

We can't help your lion, but if you would like to learn how we can help your cat or your dog with anesthesia and surgery, please contact us through www.DrPhilZeltzman.com 

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Phil Zeltzman, DVM, DACVS, CVJ, Fear Free Certified