Editorial: Big cat trafficking should be stopped

Friday, Aug. 1, 2003 | 9:15 a.m.

This week a Senate committee recommended passage of legislation that would ban the interstate shipping of exotic pets, such as lions and tigers, if they were to be used as pets. The net effect of the bill -- authored by Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev. -- would make it much more difficult for someone to purchase these wild animals since there aren't many places in the nation breeding these "big cats." The prohibition would exempt zoos, animal parks, circuses and other facilities that have federal licenses to keep wild animals. That would include Las Vegas magicians Siegfried and Roy, who hold such a federal license.

Exotic pet store owners who oppose the legislation say that it would hurt legitimate operators already obeying the law and that the sales of these animals would go underground. Despite their concerns, there is no reason why lions and tigers should be kept by someone who doesn't have a legitimate reason to do so. Ensign, a veterinarian, has noted that keeping a lion or tiger is dangerous for the animals and the keepers. Along with being carriers for deadly diseases, these animals can be mistreated or malnourished if they're not cared for properly. They also can injure their keepers -- not to mention their neighbors -- if they escape.

Similar legislation is advancing in the House. The Senate and the House should pass these sensible restrictions that would protect public safety.