Years after the closure of Argentina's Lujan Zoo, dozens of lions, tigers, and bears have endured harsh conditions, relying on a handful of devoted former zookeepers for survival. The animals, many suffering from malnutrition, injuries, and stress, are now receiving urgent veterinary care for the first time in years as part of a major rescue effort led by an international animal welfare group. Nearly half of the big cats have died since the zoo shut its doors, highlighting the severity of their plight. The surviving animals are being treated and prepared for transfer to wildlife sanctuaries abroad, marking one of the most complex animal rescues in the country's history. Former staff express mixed emotions, recalling the zoo's popularity while acknowledging the need for change to ensure the animals' welfare.