Meet Emmett the Cheetah and Cullen the Dog, the Unlikely Animal Brothers of Columbus Zoo
Emmett the cheetah did not get off to an easy start at the Columbus Zoo, but his story quickly turned into something much sweeter. After arriving as a tiny cub with a rough beginning, he found an unlikely companion in Cullen, a yellow Labrador Retriever who helped him settle in.
The pairing may look unusual, but it has become an important part of Emmett’s life at the zoo. Their bond also shines a light on the challenges cheetahs face in the wild, where the species is still fighting for survival.
Now these two are inseparable, and their friendship has become the kind of zoo story people remember.
Emmett had other siblings, but they did not survive
Emmett himself was hand-reared while simultaneously being treated for pneumonia. He was a fighter and survived the ordeal.
Emmett chose Cullen the yellow Labrador Retriever to be his puppy companion
Emmett, like any other cheetah, is naturally shy and skittish
Growing alongside Cullen will help him build his confidence as they navigate their new home. All cheetah cubs under the care of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are raised alongside their own dog companions.
Their friendship is doing more than melting hearts, it is also drawing attention to the cheetah’s fragile future.
Their companionship also helps raise awareness about the dire situation surrounding the wild cheetah population
Emmett was essentially an orphan when he arrived at the zoo
With the help of his puppy buddy, Cullen, he became more confident and relaxed around other animals
That kind of bond is rare, even by zoo standards.
This is similar to the cheetah who chased off a mighty lion to defend her cubs.
This dynamic duo probably doesn't even know they are different from each other
All they know is that they are brothers who are meant to help each other out
Their companionship and bond have been forged ever since they were young
At this point, it's pretty unbreakable
Emmett and Cullen are more than just residents at the Columbus Zoo. They actually have an important job that they do every day, aside from their very important playtime, of course.
Emmett is an ambassador for his fellow cheetahs who need help. Thanks to his unique upbringing with his brother Cullen, Emmett is less shy and nervous when he is in new environments.
The cheetahs go around the zoo and make appearances to advocate for their fellow big cats. Sharing their stories has helped raise awareness for the ongoing conservation efforts for their species.
You can watch a short video of Emmett the cheetah and Cullen the dog below:
Cheetahs like Emmett need our help to ensure their survival in the wild. Emmett is one of the lucky ones who have found a new home where he is protected and loved.
Cullen's companionship has been invaluable in Emmett's journey to becoming a "spokescheetah" for his fellow animals. Let's hope these two will have many more happy adventures together!
It is hard not to root for this unlikely pair.
For another surprising rescue, see how a dog helped an ill calf after an unexpected appearance.
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