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FROM WISCONSIN TO MERCURY

© Joy Butler

Mountain lions are normally found stalking deer and small mammals in the deserts, grasslands and mountainous regions of the western United States and Central America. However, one 200 lb mountain lion can be found snoozing in his favorite spot, on the kitchen counter of his Tampa home and preying on Eukanuba cat food and shrimp. Most of us know this huge feline. We remember his black lined eyes and sleek body from the Mercury Cougar commercial on TV. Cougar, as he is named, leads a pretty pampered life these days, but it was not always so.

Cougar began life in Owen, Wisconsin on September 29, 1990. Eight weeks later, David Raber found the cub at a boat show, declawed, and occupying a cage so tiny he could not even turn around. The little cat was frightened and miserable from the pokes and prods of spectators. At a low point in his own life, David rescued Cougar and made him a promise that he would never have to live in a cage again.

Although Cougar could not be returned to the wild without claws, for the past eleven years, David has kept his promise. He has provided Cougar his own bedroom with a choice of beds; one on the floor or a suspended hammock. He has traveled by private auto or chartered plane so that Cougar won't have to be caged on a commercial plane, and is the only animal handler to be nationally licenced to keep Cougar on a leash in public. David also allows Cougar to share hotel rooms with him and places the litter pan where Cougar dictates by sniffing.

Unable to keep his former job, due to health problems, David had to find a way to support himself and the cat he was committed to. Consequently, he and Cougar earn a living together, as "spokescat" for Eukanuba pet food, shooting commercials such as the Mercury Cougar ad, making extensive TV and personal appearances, and recently authoring a book titled "Through Cougar's Eyes: Life Lessons From One Man's Best Friend" from St. Martin's Press. Their book, detailing the joys and complexities of sharing life and home with a 200 lb cat, is available in major bookstores and Internet booksellers.

Despite a busy work schedule, David and Cougar still find time to play. Cougar's favorite toy is a stuffed moose named Winkle, but an occasional swim in the Gulf of Mexico is another delight. David holds onto Cougar's tail and the big cat pulls him through the water.