Tiger Fever Hits Baton Rouge
This Saturday, the LSU-Alabama football game at Tiger Stadium will feature a live Bengal tiger named Omar Bradley, courtesy of its owner, Mitchel Kalmanson, from Florida. This 1.5-year-old feline will be making its debut in Baton Rouge, but it won’t be Mike VII, the resident LSU mascot.
A Long-Awaited Tradition Revived
State Sen. Bill Wheat confirmed that Governor Jeff Landry’s wish to have a live tiger mascot attend an LSU football game has finally come true. Wheat was part of the governor’s unofficial committee to discuss the issue with the university, although he wasn’t directly involved in securing Omar Bradley.
A Controversial Choice
However, concerns have been raised about Kalmanson’s track record. According to PETA, he has failed to meet minimum federal standards for animal care, with numerous citations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for neglecting veterinary care, providing insufficient space, and failing to ensure proper barriers between animals and the public.
A Risky Move?
In 2003 and 2004, tigers owned by Kalmanson escaped during performances with UniverSoul Circus due to employee errors. This raises questions about the decision to involve him in this high-profile event. While having a tiger on the sideline can be an exhilarating experience, the chances of something going wrong seem higher than zero.
The Show Must Go On
Despite these concerns, the event is set to take place, and fans are eagerly anticipating the excitement. If everything goes according to plan, having Omar Bradley at the game will undoubtedly be a thrilling experience. However, it’s essential to acknowledge the potential risks involved and hope that the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all.
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