Overview

• Lions Tigers & Bears confirmed he was humanely euthanized Wednesday morning following consultations with veterinarians and caregivers.
• Louie, born Jan. 21, 2005, spent eight years at the sanctuary after his 2017 rescue.
• He was relinquished by a private trainer who had used him with two female lions in film, television and live entertainment.
• As part of the rescue, the trainer signed a pledge not to acquire big cats or train others to handle them.
• Founder Bobbi Brink said Louie’s story illustrates how performing animals are discarded, and noted the nonprofit now cares for more than 60 rescued animals on its 142-acre ranch.