Preposterous Pets

The documentary programme “Lions, Bears, Bison” looks at people who keep all manner of animals as pets. In its first edition, a self‑described “lion whisperer” based in the Czech Republic talks about his big cats as part of the series’ exploration of unconventional pet ownership.

Lions, Bears, Bison is a documentary programme presented as a single episode that examines the world of unconventional pet ownership. The series adopts a straightforward, observational style, aiming to give viewers a clear picture of how people integrate a diverse range of animals into their everyday lives. Though the title hints at iconic wildlife, the focus is on real individuals and the animals they keep as companions. The core of the documentary follows a variety of owners who keep all manner of creatures as pets, from common household companions to more exotic species. In the inaugural edition, the camera turns its attention to a man in the Czech Republic who describes himself as a “lion whisperer”. He spends the episode talking about his big cats, sharing details of their behaviour, care routines and the personal bond he claims to have with them. By concentrating on this particular individual, the programme offers a window into the practicalities and emotional connections involved in keeping such powerful predators at home. The lion whisperer explains the daily requirements of feeding, enclosure maintenance and health monitoring, while also reflecting on the challenges of cohabiting with animals that are traditionally seen only in zoos or the wild. This first episode sets the tone for the series, hinting at further stories about people who maintain an eclectic menagerie of pets across different regions.