Dog News

Kasi and Mtani: A Dog and a Cheetah Shack Up

by ADMIN

Life With Dogs is reader-supported. We may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page.

Kasi and Mtani

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s first cub and puppy duo has proven an internet sensation thanks to a series of irresistible pictures of the two at play.

The cheetah arrived at the park a month ago after its mother ceased caring for him.

Kasi and Mtani 2

After a wave of fans started following the pair a naming contest was started. It just wrapped up and the official names have been released.  The 16-week-old female yellow Lab puppy will be named Mtani, Swahili for “close friend. The 8-week-old male cheetah cub will be named Kasi, Swahili for “one with speed.”

Kasi and Mtani 3

“Male cheetahs are social and often live together in coalitions,” said Tim Smith, a curator for Busch Gardens. “This social bond will be a very similar relationship, and they will be together for life.”

Kasi and Mtani 4

Kasi and Mtani have been spending play time together each day and are eventually expected to live with one another.

Life With Dogs post end paw print