Other Opinion

OTHER OPINION: LAX LAWS

November 6

Ohio’s needless animal tragedy

WILD ANIMALS have a place, and that place is in the wild.

Had Ohio followed this simple principle, it might have been spared the tragic spectacle of 56 exotic creatures, including lions and rare Bengal tigers, on the loose in rural Zanesville, where their deranged owner, who had been charged several times with animal cruelty, set them free before killing himself.

Unfortunately, Ohio is one of a few states with America’s laxest laws on owning wild animals. Ohio’s anything-goes approach makes it a magnet for wild-animal dealers and commerce. That must change.

Since there always will be people who put their own misguided desires above the welfare of their neighbors and creatures, strict laws are needed to protect all parties.

Newsday

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