Tiger attacks highlight need for stronger exotic animal laws

Tiger attacks highlight need for stronger exotic animal laws

Associated Press – August 5, 2008 8:14 PM ET

ST. LOUIS (AP) – Two tiger attacks in Missouri have law enforcement and animal agencies calling for tougher exotic animal laws.

They say a patchwork of laws means no one agency is responsible for inspections and enforcement related to exotic animals.

A 16-year-old worker entered a tiger pen at the Predator World attraction in Branson West yesterday to take pictures for a visitor and was attacked. The teen, Dakota Ramel (RAM’ ehl), remains in critical condition at a Springfield hospital.

In a separate incident, a 26-year-old volunteer, Jacob Barr, had part of his leg amputated after he was attacked by a tiger Sunday at the Wesa-A-Geh-Ya (WAY’-suh ah GEE’-yah) animal facility in Warren County. He is in satisfactory condition at a St. Louis hospital.

Investigations continue. No one has been charged in either instance.

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