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07-17-2004, 08:58 AM

"Big cats should not be kept as pets

Holly Bowman
Campaign Coordinator The Animal Rights Foundation of Florida fort lauderdale
Posted July 17 2004

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Although the recent escape and killing of yet another tiger in Palm Beach County is unfortunate, it is the inevitable result of keeping wild animals in private homes as someone's "pet." Their very nature makes big cats incapable of being domesticated or tamed.

Even in the hands of caring private individuals, big cats suffer. These animals require special care, housing, diet and maintenance that cannot be provided for in captivity. As a result, many exotic pets, like this unfortunate tiger, are either killed, abandoned or doomed to live in deplorable conditions.

To properly ensure the community's safety and the animals' welfare, a ban on private possession of exotic animals must be adopted. Hopefully, the tragic death of this innocent tiger will serve as a long overdue wake-up call. The Animal Rights Foundation of Florida is calling on Palm Beach County to join the hundreds of cities and counties across the country, including Fort Lauderdale and the city of Palm Beach, which have severely restricted or banned the private possession of exotic animals."

This is yet another knee jerk reaction. Just wanted to give a head up to those in that county and nearby.

07-17-2004, 08:58 AM	#119
areptileguy	Palm Beach County lookout "Big cats should not be kept as pets Holly Bowman Campaign Coordinator The Animal Rights Foundation of Florida fort lauderdale Posted July 17 2004 Email story Print story Although the recent escape and killing of yet another tiger in Palm Beach County is unfortunate, it is the inevitable result of keeping wild animals in private homes as someone's "pet." Their very nature makes big cats incapable of being domesticated or tamed. Even in the hands of caring private individuals, big cats suffer. These animals require special care, housing, diet and maintenance that cannot be provided for in captivity. As a result, many exotic pets, like this unfortunate tiger, are either killed, abandoned or doomed to live in deplorable conditions. To properly ensure the community's safety and the animals' welfare, a ban on private possession of exotic animals must be adopted. Hopefully, the tragic death of this innocent tiger will serve as a long overdue wake-up call. The Animal Rights Foundation of Florida is calling on Palm Beach County to join the hundreds of cities and counties across the country, including Fort Lauderdale and the city of Palm Beach, which have severely restricted or banned the private possession of exotic animals." This is yet another knee jerk reaction. Just wanted to give a head up to those in that county and nearby.