<span id="title">Petting a Cheetah</span>
<em>Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre</em>
Not only did we get to see three separate cheetahs run at full speed, then we got to pet one! This is one of their 'ambassador' cheetahs that they take to schools and events to promote awareness. The handler coaxed the cheetah onto the table with food, and then it just laid down and started purring - LOUDLY. I guess it really likes being petted.
We were instructed only to pet between the shoulder and hip bone. Not scratching the ears or rubbing the belly allowed - not because the cheetah wouldn't enjoy it, but because if he twitched he could tear a giant gash in you.