Visitors can spend half an hour swimming with tiger cubs like Tony, an eight-week-old tiger cub, for USD 200, at Dade City's 'Wild Things' zoo outside Tampa, Florida.
The zoo charges an additional USD 10 for anyone who wants to watch the encounter. The USD 200 per person price includes a CD with photos and videos of the experience "including action shots and posed shots in the water with your cub," according to the zoo's website.
It's an experience that 'Wild Things' director Kathy Stearns said leaves almost everyone stunned.
"People are amazed at how similar they are to house cats," Stearns was quoted by the New York Daily News as saying.
Few people know how much tigers like to swim, that they have webbed feet and very distinct personalities, she said.
Baby Tony's personality is "very laid back," Stearns said.
He likes rolling around on his lap and rubbing up against visitors' legs. And he hasn't caused any trouble yet, she said.
Stearns, who said she came up with the idea for the tiger swims, explained that the zoo has not had any close calls with the kids, adults or seniors who have come to 'Wild Things' to swim.
Tigers like Tony are only allowed to swim with visitors until they weigh 40 pounds. Once they hit 25 pounds, they must be on leashes, she said.
During the swim sessions, Stearns said she and her colleagues try to educate guests about the importance of tigers.
They also offer visitors the chance to swim with alligators who have their mouths taped shut, which Stearns said is used as an educational opportunity. And none of the animals are made to do things they don't want to do.
"I occasionally get the email from an animal activist and write them back and educate them on the animals," Stearns said.
Because of "misconceptions", including the belief that tigers are often bred for their parts for sale in China, Stearns said there is a lot of opposition in the US to limit the breeding of tigers.
