For most of us, the idea of starting the day running alongside a cheetah or hand-rearing a lion cub feels like something out of a movie.
But for Shandor Larenty, it’s just another day at work. As one of South Africa’s most prominent animal handlers at the Lion & Safari Park.
Larenty has made a name for himself not only through his exceptional care for wildlife but also by sharing his extraordinary life with over 9 million TikTok followers.
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a lion as a pet, you’re not alone.
TikTok comments on Larenty’s videos are flooded with fans saying, “I want this life!” But as Larenty shows us, being close to these majestic animals is about much more than cuddles and selfies.
It’s about dedication, conservation, and a deep respect for wildlife.
Wildly unpredictable workday
“There’s honestly no fixed schedule,” Larenty says. One moment you’re feeding or cleaning enclosures, and the next, you’re out in the reserve running alongside a cheetah.”
Larenty‘s days are busy, unpredictable, and sometimes exhausting. His top priority is ensuring the animals are healthy, safe, and stimulated.
This means everything from monitoring their behavior to providing enrichment activities that mimic their natural hunting instincts.
“It’s not just about keeping them alive; it’s about giving them the best possible life in captivity,” he explains.
Larenty’s love for wildlife started early, thanks to his father, Alex Larenty, a renowned wildlife trainer.
“Some of my best memories as a kid were the days I got to tag along with my dad to the park,” he recalls.
One memory that stands out is his bond with a cheetah named Shitana when he was just 12 years old. This early connection sparked a lifelong passion for working with animals, and it’s clear that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree.
Larenty's TikTok account offers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes reality of wildlife conservation.
From sharing the playful side of lion cubs to educating his followers about the challenges of caring for predators, his content is both entertaining and enlightening.
While his videos often go viral for their heart-warming moments like cuddling with lions or walking alongside hyenas and giraffes, Larenty uses his platform to spread a bigger message about the importance of conservation.
“It’s not just about showing how beautiful these animals are. It’s about educating people on how we can protect them for future generations.”
Why can’t I have a pet lion? If you’ve ever watched Shandor’s videos and thought, "Can I have a lion as a pet?", the short answer is: "No, you can’t."
While some TikTok creators, like Charity Ekezie, poke fun at misconceptions about Africa in their satirical content, Larenty’s work highlights the reality of keeping lions and just wildlife in a conducive environment.
@shandorlarenty Cindy makes everyday the best day with her cheetah cuddles! 🧡 #CindyTheCheetah #ShandorLarenty #animal #taylorswift #friendship #wildlife ♬ Guilty as Sin? - Taylor Swift
These are wild animals that require vast spaces, specific diets, and expert care. South African law prohibits private ownership of lions without strict permits, and even then, the conditions must mimic their natural habitats.
Lions are not pets; they are apex predators with complex needs that can’t be met in a domestic setting.