May 23, 2007
WE LIKE MIKE (via Glenn Dryfoos):
LSU likely to ignore PETA, obtain new tiger mascot (Associated Press, 5/23/07)
A group of animal advocates is urging LSU not to replace its recently departed mascot with another live tiger but school officials appear unlikely to accept that idea."Big cats in captivity are denied everything that is natural and important to them, such as the opportunity to run, climb, hunt, establish their territory, and choose their mates," Lisa Wathne, of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, says in a letter to school officials.
"The LSU mascot is part of the LSU community, part of the LSU family; a tradition for 71 years," said Dr. David Baker of the LSU Veterinary School, who cared for Mike and was visibly shaken last week by the tiger's death from kidney failure. "And we intend to obtain another tiger."
Mike was the source of one of the most vital concepts in the discussion of film. Posted by Orrin Judd at May 23, 2007 8:45 AM
As an LSU alum, rabid football fan and someone who, over the past 50 years, has been a die hard fan of all things LSU, I cannot imagine the school without a tiger mascot.
Mike the Tiger has a better life than most tigers in the wild and, for that matter, millions of people the world over. The medical care alone is without equal. His habitat would be the envy of many a homeless person; and his diet.... fuhgitaboudit!
To be sure there are tigers in captivity who are treated shamefully and PETA should direct its attention toward these owners and breeders. As for Mike the Tiger? Well, they should use him as their poster boy for how to properly care for tigers in captivity.
Things Mike doesn't have to worry about (Not that tigers worry, mind you). Well balanced meals. Not going hungry. Shelter and protection. Safe from poaching. Safe, clean facilities. Medical care that most humans would covet. Overall love and care from a trained staff. If tigers could talk, I am sure there would be a long list of candidates applying for the role of the next Mike the Tiger (VI).
It is inevitable that tigers are going to be kept in captivity. LSU takes great pride in doing it right.
Sincerely,
Alan Shaw
Geaux Tigahs!