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April 20, 2005
LETTER: Tiger by the tail
These attacks are mainly the result of the work of a few extremist organizations that want to cast all ownership of animals in a bad light. The author of this letter called for regulations that would prohibit the responsible ownership of animals like lions and tigers. He claims that they lead to abuse cases, like the Karl Mitchell case. Unfortunately, these animals do occasionally get abused. But, so do dogs, cats, and even children. I frequently travel through Pahrump, and happen to know a number of people there who own these magnificent animals. One in particular has facilities that rival a vast majority of zoos. These people love their animals, and simply want the best for them. But, people like the author of the aforementioned letter would like to see responsible owners (as well as the few abusers) stripped of their right to own, love and enjoy the companionship of these special animals (not to mention being an important hedge against impending extinction in the wild). The author called on groups like PETA and HSUS to take the lead in legislating these animals to extinction. But do understand that these groups want no one to own animals for any reason, and will do anything to get their way. PETA even openly admits backing terrorist groups (and is under Congressional investigation for doing so) like the Animal Liberation Front. Folks, banishment is not the answer. Promoting responsible animal ownership is. And so is severely punishing people who are unwilling to properly care for their animals, be it a turtle or a tiger. Responsible ownership is the way that our children's children will be able to enjoy these animals like we can today. TIM STOFFEL RENO |
