At first glance, it might seem like a cheetah is chasing a dog in the snow at an Ohio zoo, but these two are best friends.
Savanah, a one-and-a-half-year-old cheetah, and Max, a Labrador just a few weeks younger, have been inseparable since they were introduced when Savanah was only ten weeks old.
Footage from the Cincinnati Zoo shows the pair having fun in the snow, racing around and playfully chasing each other.
Visitors are often surprised to see the spotted predator and energetic dog playing together, wondering why the cheetah hasn’t gone after her canine friend.
In the video, Savanah can be seen pouncing on Max in the bushes before they both take off running again.
Max, the more energetic of the two, leaps into the air and playfully tackles Savanah as she catches her breath, showing off their playful bond.
Max is part of a program to help cheetahs born in captivity develop more confidence. Captive cheetahs often struggle to socialize with other big cats, and many zoos and safari parks have faced challenges with breeding these endangered animals.
However, about 30 years ago, the San Diego Zoo began pairing cheetahs with companion dogs, creating a unique partnership.
“The dog always watches out for the cat, but it’s never the other way around. Dogs look after their cats and protect them,” said Janet Rose-Hinostroza from the San Diego Zoo in an interview with NBC.
At the Cincinnati Zoo, Savanah and Max have been inseparable since they were introduced last year.
Although they spend plenty of time together, they’re fed separately, and Max also enjoys playdates with other dogs and people.
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