Many individuals are expressing their outrage regarding the presence of a live tiger at the LSU football game against Alabama. This reaction includes Carole Baskin, the founder of Big Cat Rescue, who spoke with TMZ Sports. She described the situation as a “blatant disregard for the tiger’s well-being,” highlighting the ethical concerns surrounding the use of wild animals in entertainment settings. Baskin’s criticism draws attention to the broader issues of animal rights and the responsibility of institutions to prioritize the welfare of wildlife over spectacle.

This past Saturday marked a significant event, as it was the first time since 2015 that a Panthera Tigris made an appearance on the field during an LSU football game. This unusual occurrence happened at the request of Governor Jeff Landry, who had initially hoped to see the university’s current tiger mascot, Mike, make an appearance for pregame celebrations. However, the university opted against this, raising questions about the appropriateness of bringing a wild animal into such a setting and the implications it has for both the animal and the event itself.

After the university declined to use their mascot, Governor Landry decided to bring in a tiger from Florida instead, a move that sparked further outrage from Baskin for several reasons. She argues that transporting a wild animal over such a distance for entertainment purposes poses serious risks to its health and well-being. This decision not only raises questions about animal welfare but also highlights the ethical implications of using wildlife in sports and entertainment, as well as the messages it sends to the public regarding the treatment of animals.

Baskin pointed out that the public should be asking critical questions regarding whether the office of Governor Jeff Landry, the Tiger Athletic Fund, or the LSU Police Department utilized taxpayer money or neglected to obtain the necessary permits just to satisfy the governor’s desire to witness a tiger in the stadium. She emphasized that Mike the Tiger, their campus mascot, has historically disliked attending games, raising further concerns about the ethical implications of forcing a wild animal into such situations.

The Republican governor explained to a local outlet that this entire spectacle was intended to honor the university’s tradition of live mascots. However, regardless of Landry’s intentions, the decision faced significant backlash from both animal rights advocates and concerned citizens. This situation underscores the ongoing debate about the ethical treatment of animals in entertainment and sports, and whether such traditions should continue in modern society.

Landry articulated his perspective, stating, “This is about tradition. This is about honoring the legacy of our live mascots from Mike I through VI. We have had a live mascot on the field, as many other universities have done historically. This is a way to pay tribute to those Mikes, and no one can take away the dignity, respect, and love we have for Mike VII.” His comments reflect a commitment to maintaining traditions, even as public sentiment evolves regarding the use of animals in sports.

A number of petitions have emerged in opposition to this controversial decision, with one petition gathering an impressive 14,837 signatures expressing dissatisfaction with the plans to feature a live tiger. This reaction reflects the growing concern among the public about the treatment of animals in entertainment settings and the importance of advocating for their rights and welfare. Such grassroots movements highlight the significant role that public opinion plays in shaping policies regarding animal welfare.