Ruben on the move

Update: Our beloved and inspirational Ruben passed away in April 2024. How his lust for life inspired us all: adiwildlifesan...
September 15, 2023: life of severe confinement and poor nutrition has left Ruben with severe mobility problems. The 15-year old lion is being treated for spondylitis, inflammation of the spine and joints and may have other underlying issues. Before he left Armenia, he could barely take a couple of paces before his hind legs collapsed and he fell. However, thanks in a large part to this remarkable lion’s determination, since arriving at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary he has driven himself on and is walking further each day and doing better turning. This video, filmed in the last few days, shows that Ruben still has a long way to go, but the work improving the quality of his life is just beginning. Please note this is not a “Best of Ruben” video, the footage is selected to show supporters who are helping him the full range of his movement, the progress he is making and the work still to do. The Kunduchi catnip punchbag is pretty heavy, but he carries it off with ease!
A huge thank you to all the ADI supporters who pulled together to bring Ruben home, Keith Holmes who sponsored Ruben’s Habitat (Keith’s Happiness Habitat), and Sharon and Art Barber who sponsored Ruben’s latest giant punchbag and the heating in his house.

[@Hatchetforce]

His spine already appears a little straighter versus how hunched he was at the beginning. I can't wait until he is physically more able and they can find a lioness in her golden years to be his friend.

[@user-jo5ml8et1z]

Cats yawn when they're happy and content and he did that at the end of the video. This video made my day. Thank you to everyone who helped bring this beautiful, majestic lion back to Africa where he can live his life the way God meant him to.

[@stacykuster9409]

It looks like Ruben is enjoying his life now, despite his handicaps. I wish Ruben the best and hope he gets better in time 🥰❤❤❤🦁

[@falanajerido875]

What happen to his leg?

[@hotbit7327]

@@falanajerido875 Read video description.

[@danielledevarennes8192]

Merci, de nous donnez des nouvelles et des images de ruben. Touchée au cœur par la beauté et la faiblesse de cet animal. Allez ruben, nous t accompagnons par le cœur. Merci à toute l équipe du sanctuaire

[@stacykuster9409]

@@falanajerido875 A life of severe confinement and poor nutrition has left Ruben with severe mobility problems. Ruben is being treated for spondylitis, inflammation of the spine and joints and may have other underlying issues. For Ruben to survive all of this cruelty, just shows how strong and resilient he is. 🥰❤🦁

[@falanajerido875]

@@stacykuster9409i am in tears for Ruben .Thank God he has some freedom and I pray he heals thank you for your comment. And saving a beautiful lion as him

[@laurapalka3685]

Can you imagine what a lifetime of lying on a small enclosed cold block of cement must do to a body? I simply can’t. 😢 But look at him GO!! He’s working so hard, trying his best, not giving up. You can see the joy he has now in the simple things in his life. WOW!! ♥️

[@jmm834]

ADX Florence is the human version.

[@fuzzballfactory7160]

Every life no matter if they are fuzzy, furry, scaly or feathered deserves happiness ❤️

[@LReed0115]

So heartwarming to see how free he is now!! Thank you to EVERYONE who made this possible!!

[@leafearth4598]

How can people be so cruel to animals its beyond me... Happy loving Recovery Ruben.

[@aidaju9789]

Many, many regards from Switzerland 🇨🇭 I donated for Ruben a while ago and I am constantly checking on your page for news about him! Thank you so much for rescuing him 💕💕💕

[@lexacheyenne9653]

Im happy to see him playing and being a lion. With all the space, i have no doubt his legs will be back in complete working order soon. Poor guy never had enough space to use them properly and was so weak in the beginning. The fact that he was rescued and can play and enjoy the grass and the sand and whatever else is around him, is amazing. A lot of appreciation for this channel and the people behind it that help these big cats come home. ❤️

[@ADITV-animals]

Thank you!

[@vladimirrurik4579]

Please keep posting Reuben videos

[@deborahcarlisle3262]

It breaks my heart but at least he's in the right place .May he improve with each day mentally and physically. God bless you Ruben and those who have the privilege to look after you xxx ❤

[@MyMags8]

Wow such a marked improvement from when he first arrived, slowly building muscle strength, & he so loves his catnip sacks. Difficult to tell whether his left rear leg is just weak or if he has hip, knee or ankle issues or perhaps some neuropathy in his paw. Whatever it is time will tell as he heals. 💖🦁ROAR🦁💖🥰

[@ADITV-animals]

That issue with the left leg has to due with his spondylitis, an inflammatory disease which can cause bones to fuse, involves the spine (that's why his spine is arched), joints, tendons and ligaments. It is amazing to see how much he has progressed since his arrival just a few weeks ago.

[@MyMags8]

@@ADITV-animals thank you for clarifying 🦁💖 Do you have access to a chiropractor who specializes in animals? I saw a video of one in Germany who greatly improved a Doberman spondylosis

[@RelaxPlanetMusic]

I pray for a new friend soon, he deserve ... hopefully is muscles are going to recover at least more 50% ... my King 👑 ... I am going to follow you while I am alive. Maybe visit you one day... ...

[@falanajerido875]

What happen to his leg?

[@RelaxPlanetMusic]

@@falanajerido875 6 years alone on a jail in Armenia country... now he is back to Africa, thanks to those who donated and to this amazing rescue center... He need to learn to walk and run again... he is strong, he will recover 🙏💪

[@janetnwaoshai23]

Age happened and his circumstances. He is survivor. ☺️

[@falanajerido875]

@@janetnwaoshai23 and i love him

[@jburnett8152]

Despite his difficulties he is still a beautiful king. ❤

[@nancyurachel3892]

😂. Tears of Joy !!!!!

[@evelien3222]

He was given a second chance at life. Absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much for saving him and bringing him home

[@StefByron]

It's wonderful to see that our donations have helped put him into his natural habitat and I hope that as he grows in strength and confidence his health and mobility will improve

[@ADITV-animals]

Yes! Everything you see, all the progress he's making, his joy, playful spirit, and peace are all thanks to ADI supporters who helped make this life possible for him. Even ADIWS veterinarian Dr Caldwell was very pleased with his progress in such a short time.

[@janetnwaoshai23]

That review from his vet is very reassuring. I am going to sleep so well tonight. 👌🏼🫶🏼🙌🏼🦁

[@miragliottadamien6901]

Happy to see that there are human who take care of these magnificent animals. Love Ruben, long life to you big boy.

[@patriciatarallo628]

Well done Ruben - getting moving despite it may be difficult - you are a TROOPER! I am so glad to see you enjoying your new home! Love you Ruben (Golden Eye)!

[@campbelltown3065]

So glad to see Reuben where he belongs. In Africa. We’ll done ADI.

[@juneabbott6805]

Awesome progress. Given his obvious determination and the wonderful care he is receiving he will undoubtedly continue to progress on the road to better health. Heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the team taking care of this majestic lion. ❤

[@tigera6681]

I hope to see beautiful Ruben roars & run again soon.

[@tom7471]

He seems to already be moving a little better in the short while he has been there. What dear and beautiful animal Ruben is.

[@scottied67]

Ruben is a cool cat! He is also a wonderful inspiration. He never lost hope nor gave up his royal dreams despite his circumstances. The most remarkable part, is that he is still going strong at 15 years old and appears to be gaining strength and vitality. I am so happy to see he is enjoying himself in his golden years.

[@ADITV-animals]

Yes, he is truly inspirational!!

[@janetnwaoshai23]

​@ADITV-animals thank you. Thank you so much to Qatar Airlines too. No one has mentioned them. Their single act really brought this to a beautiful successful end. ❤

[@noemigayaton1592]

Yall sure have made an old gray haired lady in So Tx happy giving Ruben this new life! I love how he tasted the grass right away & his open mouth tasting of his new world. It is rescuers & supporters that keep hope alive in this world.❤ ❤❤

[@mariarohmer2374]

He's so determined and proud. Such a lovely boy.❤

[@daisyduke3535]

This is wonderful. I'll keep watching this magnificent handsome lion.

[@differentperceptions8137]

He’s definitely a North African lion by the look of his eyes and mane.majestic ❤

[@adrahc]

I'm a hardened man of mature year but it brings me to tears when I see what man is capable of doing to animals,I wish him well and all like him who have been rescued from the torment of humans..Well done to you all

[@denisehicks7525]

He is so joyful and quite playful, his happiness shows. His strength King of the beast is so enderring, I pray each day he gets stronger and I know a good diet will help. His team is amazing and I am grateful for all who have helped this amazing Feline. SO worth it. God Bless all. And I will pray for Rubens recovery. ( That's my dads name), His life is forever grand.

[@scottwhaley4585]

He is a beautiful lion! Mt heart hurts for this animal!

[@ADITV-animals]

Sadly, Ruben passed away in April. 15 years of captivity and malnutrition in the private zoo in Armenia left his body compromised by spondylitis and degenerative neuropathy; the bones in his spine were disintegrating, damaging his spinal nerve. You can read our tribute to him here adiwildlifesanctuary.org.za/2024/04/11/how-rubens-lust-for-life-inspired-us-all/

[@brendabell9534]

Praying that his life improves with time. Poor baby!

[@cher3256]

Bless this beautiful boy, LOVE you Ruben. Keep getting stronger!❤

[@nortcrusader]

More videos from Ruben please!!! He's so majestic

[@barbwilliams1449]

Yes please! Try to catch him “talking” ( I know his roar is damaged) 🙏🏻

[@ADITV-animals]

Please make sure you're subscribed to our channel, so you don't miss any updates. You can also follow us on Facebook (we go live on there from the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, which includes more Ruben updates), Instagram, X and Threads.

[@charmaineclaasen7814]

Thank you so much for rescuing Ruben...the rehabilitation of this lion is amazing due to God's LOVE in the wonderful hearts of you'all... Thank you for your kindness... LOVE THIS ❤

[@carolinekavanagh5371]

Look forward to hearing more about your progress Ruben. You'll get there just one day at a time.

[@mirkkasalo5868]

Bless you, lovely Lion 🙏🍀🍀🍀

[@suzannehaigh4281]

He still has a way to go but pleasing to see him moving so much better and of course playing with his sacks, he does seem to like them. What a change in his life and it will only get better for him.

[@KAZUYADOG]

Keep ruben updates coming.

[@ADITV-animals]

Please make sure you're subscribed to our channel, as we have posted updates since this. You can also follow us on Facebook (you can catch up on our FB lives from the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, which includes more Ruben updates), Instagram, X and Threads for more updates.

[@Thomas-fg1ds]

What a difference in his movements compared to hist first steps into his new environment. A big THANK YOU to ADI and the vets. Even i can see his moveing abilities are still restricted the improvements compared to his release time are highly visible. He can much better stand straight and move, I've got the notion that his spine is more straight then before. You at ADI and your vets give me some hope in mankind, the hope which those who did that to this majestc animal took away. Donated.

[@ADITV-animals]

Thank you so much! We're so fortunate to have been able to make a difference in his life and show him what true freedom, love and care feels like. But our work is only possible through your help and support, so thank you for donating!

[@teresataddeo4388]

Oh my gosh! What a wonderful story! I’ve been watching all the videos and I’m in love😍

[@timoteiafanasie4894]

Big boy is gonna be ok. Good sun, good food and he's will to live are best medicine.

[@bethlarkin5651]

Such a beautiful animal. I can't wait till he is able to be around other lions. I don't know a lot about them but I'm guessing it will take time. He seems so much better already. This gives me great hope and praise for humans. You guys really went above and beyond for Ruben. ❤🎉

[@CarolFremel-my4hs]

Some humans

[@bethlarkin5651]

@@CarolFremel-my4hs Obviously.

[@btv914]

He's loving the bag toy..showing us He's the boss of that...😊

[@btv914]

Hope his back legs get better

[@ADITV-animals]

@@btv914 Ruben has spondylitis, an inflammatory disease which can cause bones to fuse, involves the spine, joints, tendons and ligaments. This is due to a combination of lifelong poor nutrition, confinement and lack of exercise. At ADIWS, Ruben has more space than he has ever known and a stimulating environment to encourage him to move and help build his muscles. During our recent veterinary day, ADIWS veterinary Dr Caldwell remarked that Ruben looked "fabulous" and was very pleased with his progress so far.

[@doobidoo2251]

Thank God he is doing good. I can’t believe the treatment he got in the past. This team is wonderful for giving him a happy life.❤

[@tyrannicaltypomichaeltester]

Happy for him to be put of that horrible place

[@rebeccavanderwalt9920]

Heartwarming and heartbreaking ❤

[@helenahandkart1857]

He is really coming along, & seems enjoying life. 🙏💕👍

[@chrisclare565]

I truly believe that they not only know what you have done for him, but also that he will have you on his 'love you ❤️ forever' list long after he crosses the rainbow 🌈 bridge.

[@ADITV-animals]

This is so sweet! We sure hope so🥺❤️

[@stellagannuccelli9183]

Ruben is so beautiful , I'm so happy that he has a better life , and that he's able to mend from his abuse . Thank you to those who brought him back to health.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@pattiwhite9575]

15 years old? He acts younger. He loves bag toy hanging. He is playful. Has such a sweet face. I wish him less pain for the rest of his life.

[@ADITV-animals]

Yes, it is amazing to see how a change in his environment and great care has really brought years back. He is a very playful senior lion, with a zest for life. He is making up for all those years of being deprived of any enrichment and toy, in his concrete cell in Armenia.

[@brendaseeley3421]

It'd be so nice to see him walk without any pain without stumbling and wobbling . He is so majestic and beautiful. Thank you for everything you do , karma and God will treat you good. I just realized that is the first time he's ever played with the toy.

[@stacy4633]

The world loves Ruben and Ruben loves his catnip🥰😋

[@mariarohmer2374]

I think all us lion lovers could watch his adorable, regal cuteness 24/7! I mean I would even watch him sleep. Everything he does is precious.🥰

[@Banks614]

❤❤❤❤

[@robindorrell9347]

Thank you! You all are the best!!!

[@gooberfries6692]

We Love you, Ruben. 🦁🐾🇺🇸♥️♥️♥️♥️🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@janetnwaoshai23]

I agree. He's stolen my heart, too.

[@nooneknows9545]

Oh seeing this beautiful majestic Lion trying to walk makes me so sad, but also happy that he will live his life out with people who care. I do hope his treatments continue to work. Wish there were more wonderful caring people in this world to free all the caged bears monkeys lions etc. Will never understand how cruel some people can be.

[@shanecomeback8296]

Poor old guy, at least he has a happy ending.

[@G-Malo]

Thank you for saving Ruben

[@MuneebaSalsa]

❤😢😊

[@robynguinn8941]

Beautiful Lion King denied his proper life, never have I seen such a fantastic mane. Already his movement has improved and there is only better days ahead for Ruben. Thank you for bringing him home.

[@rdstobbart]

He looks so much better and adjusting to his native land. When will he meet another lion or lioness? Awesome work by all organizations involved in his care. Every creature deserves love.

[@童翊華]

Thank you for everything you do for lions

[@Everett_James]

Breaks my heart to see what years upon years did to his body living on hard concrete. Keep the updates coming get him a lady friend

[@ADITV-animals]

Please make sure you're subscribed to our channel so you don't miss any updates. You can also follow us on Facebook (we also go live on there from the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary), Instagram, X and Threads for more regular updates. Whether or not Ruben can have a companion in his habitat depends on circumstances, how he progresses, his level of fitness, and luck - such as if a suitable companion arrived, like an older, sterilized female. Introducing lions is a long and careful process, living alongside each other with a fence in between. For now, like many of the males, Ruben is happy in his own space with lion neighbors he can communicate with: brothers Coco and Chino (rescued from a circus in Peru), Kesari the male lion from Pretoria Zoo, and closest to him, Rey and Simba from a circus in Peru.

[@chriswar535]

He seems to be moving a little better but it's an effort to get up. He is doing so well. All the sun and breeze & nice food & care is helping him recover. May his strength continue to improve & when he is stronger to allow lions in the enclosure next to him so he can smell & hear them up close without them harming him 😊👍

[@raytavares2256]

😢😢😢😢😢Beautiful mystic animal which was not meant to be cruel tortured, thank you for rescuing him Beautiful mystic animal which was not meant to be cruel tortured, thank you for rescuing him.

[@falanajerido875]

I love you ruben

[@RevelationStation227]

This sweet baby❤

[@cher3256]

Love you Ruben !❤❤❤❤❤🐾❤❤😂

[@sameerazenib9678]

The King of the Jungle can finally watch the Sun rises and the Sun sets of the African Savannah ❤❤

[@kristinewaldron]

I love this soooo much!! 💜💕Thank you for ALL you have done for Ruben 🦁And for ALL do for ALL animals!! ❤ 🙏

[@bossefied]

I cannot imagine 5 years captivity for this beautiful cat. He deserves a happy ending to his life never needing to worry again. Soon they will find him a mate and I can’t wait to see it. Thank you for the kindness

[@masalachic2461]

Love Ruben, such a trooper. ❤

[@abbasalichinikamwalla7958]

It's a pity. Hope he gets well soon.🤲

[@atgtaurus67]

Literally brought tears of happiness to my eyes 💫

[@helenestrada1913]

Viewers love you Ruben! 🙏💗🦁

[@andru1234455]

i’m so glad there is a follow up

[@jmo2104]

Hey Reuben, Glad to see you feeling a little better dude❤

[@TinaLeRoux-i7w]

It is so sad that these magnificent creatures had to endure things like this......Thanks to ADi you are my heroes. 😔❤🦁❤

[@daviddalby9699]

Hart warming . Itspeeeks for its self that you for the people with compassionate soul and the meas to make a change for other's

[@cherylmcnutt9905]

He really enjoys his catnip!

[@petersneddon1579]

He'll continue to improve god willing and it's a wonderful thing to see god bless Rubin and all the mistreated creatures of this world.

[@dawnh.7147]

😢😊

[@katgrey6239]

Prayers for you, Ruben!! Hopefully, you'll receive a lovely lioness as your mate!!

[@MelindaPearson-o3c]

Again don't think ENOUGH WORDS COULD BE SAID, BEYOND BEAUTIFUL 😮😮😮😊😊😊

[@wendysw714]

Oh no! The cord hit him when it broke loose. 😬 ❤

[@bluepuppy7181]

🙂❤👍👏

[@brianwhite8593]

He seems to be walking a little better that limp he had in his front leg isn’t as bad and his back legs look a little stronger hopefully he continues to improve and get stronger he deserves to be able to play and run around finally after so long

[@ADITV-animals]

Yes, he's such a warrior and he's made so much progress!

[@njk985]

Lovely to see the huge improvement in His stride❤

[@deborahyoung2667]

My heart is overflowing with joy for him. Being there I hope his walking, balance & confidence improves. He was a bit upset his toy broke but he made do with it. Truly magnificent. ❤️

[@blagmate5516]

Popped that elastic rope holding the bag up. It smacked him in the rump! OUCH!

[@gilleyt]

Possibly he can make a friend he seems very social.

[@imhere8380]

PART OF HEALING WOULD BE TO GIVE RUBEN A GIRLFRIEND.....PLEASE...HE DESERVES TO HAVE A FRIEND TO TALK TO.

[@katiedotson704]

Watching him struggle to walk, while knowing what a strong and agile animal he should have been, makes me anger beyond words. Reuben is why I don't like people. But his attack on the bag and the "tough guy swagger" when he finally got the bag free and carried it off was a joy to watch. The inner lion cub came shining through.

[@ADITV-animals]

yes, it is heartbreaking to thing about his past, but it brings us so much joy to see him now. He is making up for all those years, and is having so much fun. His inner kitty has really come alive.

[@caroldennis607]

They should be charged in Armenia for animal crimes for how they treated this sweet animal. He can rest now without pain in heaven 🙏.

[@gooberfries6692]

He definitely need companionship, that cat nip in the tire really knocked him back but did not deter his determination. We all are a little like him. He looks so lonely.😢

[@stacykuster9409]

There is other lions around him but yeah I hope Ruben will get a compatible companion in the near future 🙏

[@ADITV-animals]

Whether or not he can have a companion in the future depends on circumstances, how he progresses, his level of fitness, and luck - such as if a suitable companion arrived, for example an older, sterilized female. It is a long and careful process which involves them living alongside each other with a fence in between. For now, like many of the males, Ruben is happy in his own space with lion companions across the road with he can communicate: brothers Coco and Chino, Kesari the male from Pretoria Zoo, and closest to him, Rey and Simba from Peru.

[@itspossible3381]

@@ADITV-animalsThank you for this extensive share!

[@stacykuster9409]

@@paulibakker8880 Ruben does look content 😃

[@MariaSuarez-be4yr]

🙏🦁👑🦁❤️

[@christineschmidt4706]

Super

[@aliceinpearlgarden1]

i can feel the loneliness !

[@katefox7692]

Aww is he still on his own 😮

[@ADITV-animals]

Sadly, Ruben passed away in April. Years of confinement and poor nutrition in the private zoo he was in before his rescue caught up to him. :(

[@ADITV-animals]

You can read our tribute to him here: adiwildlifesanctuary.org.za/2024/04/11/how-rubens-lust-for-life-inspired-us-all/