Puppy helps cheetah cub pal through tough surgery

SAN DIEGO (KGO) -- A cheetah cub and puppy who became best friends at the San Diego Zoo's Safari Park have now helped each other through a tough time.

When Ruuxa the cheetah had to have surgery last week, his puppy pal Raina was right by his side.

Doctors had to repair a growth abnormality in the 4-month-old cheetah cub's forelegs, which was causing a bowing of the limbs.

"She was very near him for the entire surgery and for his immediate recovery and Ruxxa was actually looking for Raina. Ruuxa's feet have started to turn forward again," Animal training supervisor Janet Rose-Hinostroza said.

Animal trainers say the cheetah has been recovering well and should have a bright future of running.

It's normal practice at the park to pair domesticated dogs with cheetahs to help them learn to interact with the general public. Their relationship is unique in that park officials have never had cheetah and dog companions this young.

Trainers at the Safari Park said Ruuxa has made a remarkable recovery very quickly and he's doing that with his best friend Raina by his side.

They said all indications are that he will go on to lead a normal life.