Las Vegan Magazine of Las Vegas

He was the last survivor of a litter the breeder had abused...

By Mary M. Baldasano

Large curious brown eyes peer out upon the world from behind an old painted barrel. Waiting, wondering, at the meaning of the stranger’s presence that enters his space, a world consisting of a 15 X 30-foot enclosure, the only place he knows to be home. A home that was once tranquil, and though uncomfortable during high temperatures, it was secure. A home where Nakia, a 4 year old, 270 pound Cougar (a.k.a. Mountain Lion or Puma), could lounge away the hours lying on the high shelf built in the corner, surreptitiously studying the activities of those who pass his way. Perhaps playing with the empty five-gallon water bottle as if it were a ball. The streamline body surrounded by the beauty of a sleek brown coat, a mere hint of the strength just underneath. Yet, Nakia has been declawed and de-tommed (if you get my meaning).
Usually, when you think of a Mountain Lion/Cougar/Puma, you envision high mountain rock formations surrounded by either tall pines or impossibly twisted cedars that protect the entrances to secret, shady caves. The inquisitive stumbling of small spotted kittens protected by ferocious mothers. The silhouette of a strong young male lion against the evening sky searching the forest for its evening meal.
Alas, Nakia is none of those. Was he rescued from an abusive owner? Sort of. Peggy Mendez actually purchased Nakia from a Kansas breeder when but 12 days old; he was the last survivor of a litter the breeder had abused. Nakia has known only one friend, one home, owner/trainer (10 years experience) Peggy who came to Las Vegas with the promise of acreage and support to fulfill her dream. A dream of providing a sanctuary for exotic cats that have lost their appeal once they are no longer kittens (the promise was broken after she purchased Nakia and moved here). But she didn’t plan to keep just exotic cats. Peggy also rescues other animals that are "discarded" in dumpsters and the like that are sick, injured, or just unwanted. She nurses them to health and finds a home for them.
Peggy dreams of creating a sanctuary that would also allow people of all ages to safely visit and perhaps touch the animals, as a way of presenting the reality to go with the movies. She would also like to find teachers to help people understand the need for restraint, compassion, and consideration for the other animals that live on our vast planet.
However, after four years of struggle, a less than friendly divorce, and being taken for granted as a result of her warm, caring, and friendly personality, Peggy is at her wits end. She readily admits to being a little naīve to the ways of Las Vegas. But cold reality has a way of teaching us all, and she knows that finding her dream here won’t happen.
Recently, a hard-hearted individual decided to call in a vicious lie to the local authorities concerning Nakia. The report was something to the effect (actual report not available), that Nakia had broken out and was destroying other animals. As a result of this overwhelming lie, the facility where his enclosure is kept has received undo attention, which now means that Peggy must find a new location for his cage. She only has until the end of January, which means by the time you read this, his fate may have already been determined.

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Nakia with owner Peggy Mendez.

Nakia after enjoying some Cheez Whiz.

Peggy would really like to take Nakia, and her Siberian Lynx, Keanu (who is dying from renal failure), back to her home state of Florida, where the climate is more suitable and provides a comfortable environment. The Las VegaN would like to help make this come true. We have adopted Nakia as our magazine’s mascot, and plan to give a portion of the subscription price towards this effort. If you would like to help Peggy and Nakia, you may contact her at 702- 438-6263, or via email at AllForCatz@aol.com.
Her animals consume over $600 a month in food alone, not to mention Keanu’s medical expenses that continue to mount. Her Lynx is seriously ill, and much of her resources go for her care as well. Since Peggy’s injury a few months ago, she has been unable to work and is surviving on her savings, so any assistance would be greatly appreciated (even a new job).
However, the important need right now is to find a new location for Nakia’s enclosure, where he and Peggy can be together. Someplace Peggy can exercise him, and work on his training. If you know of a person who has sufficient land and would be willing to obtain the required permit, which Peggy is prepared to pay for, please let her know.
It is entirely possible that if Peggy is unable to move him in time, the county could impound him and potentially destroy him. For this to happen to a cat that is no more than a big lovable kitten who enjoys a can of Cheez Whiz now and then, and who gives the loudest purr in the area, would be nothing less than criminal. The soft yip of greeting he gives Peggy when she enters his space is the sound of love, similar to that of kitten responding to his mother’s call. These cats mean everything to Peggy. She is willing to sacrifice to keep them safe.
DON’T LET THIS HAPPEN!! HELP PEGGY! HELP NAKIA!! Let’s move him to a new place of peace and security.
Nakia is truly "A Breed Apart." Let’s find a place where he can be at home with his trainer and friends. LVN