Are Exotic Cats a Threat to Public Safety? Why Exotic Pets Are Not Dangerous
I would like to address some of the statements I have found on the web and in proposed ban bills portraying servals and other small wild felines as unpredictable and dangerous creatures. This is a clear case of "what you don't know you will fear." First of all, I would like to clarify for everyone that we are talking about tame, hand-raised pets bred in the United States. It's not like you take a trip to Africa, rope yourself a serval, and drag it home hissing and spitting!
In his best-selling book Fear Less, security and threat analysis expert Gavin de Becker writes "Unfortunately, when it comes to security, the American way has often been to implement procedures that are more relevant to assuaging public anxiety than they are to reducing risk." Ban laws are a prime example of an action that may ease anxiety, but fail to make the nation safer.
By saying that tame wild cats are "extremely unpredictable and dangerous creatures," people show their lack of understanding of animal behavior. These statements are wild exaggerations of the reality. Even wild animals in-situ (i.e. roaming untamed in the wilderness) do not behave in a dangerous, unpredictable fashion. Every animal has species-specific behavior patterns. These behaviors can be learned and understood by the owners of such animals in captivity, especially since they are very similar to the behaviors of a domestic cat.
These behaviors are not greatly different from domesticated animals. For example, the pattern of naturally occurring behaviors in wolves and domestic dogs is virtually identical. A poorly socialized domestic dog with a careless or un-informed owner can be far more "dangerous" than a serval or a caracal.
Our society's standard for a safe and lovable pet predator seems to be the domestic dog. However, even man's self-proclaimed best friend has been known to injure and sometimes kill us. Statistics suggest that between 2 and five million dog bites occur yearly. In fact, during the five-year period between 1989 and 1994, domestic dogs killed 45 children. Why doesn't this sad figure shock us more deeply?
Maybe it has something to do with the fact that during a similar length of time, an estimated 4,605 children were killed by humans (Lindsay, Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training). Approximately 5 children lose their lives every day due to maltreatment and child abuse homicide (U.S. Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, 1995).
To further put this in perspective, we must now consider the fact that even with the enormous number of dog bites each year and the number of fatalities due to dog bites, a child is statistically safer in the presence of the average pet dog than with its own family! The number of children murdered each year by their own parents and guardians overwhelmingly overshadows the number of people killed by dogs. We ourselves are the most dangerous and unpredictable animal on the planet.
Am I saying that servals and other exotic cats are not dangerous? No, if we define "dangerous" as having the potential to cause injury to a human being. Every animal can be dangerous, and every human can be dangerous. One thing I teach my dog behavior clients is that all dogs have the potential to bite. They will show aggression if placed in the wrong situation, just as even the most benevolent of humans will react with violence when sufficiently provoked.
However, these cats are certainly no more inherently dangerous than a domestic dog of comparable size. In fact, they are probably safer than domestic dogs; there has never been a report of a serval killing a human being, and their owners are generally very responsible about keeping them controlled.
Whether a dog, a person, or an exotic cat eventually injures someone depends on an uncertain balance of genetics, temperament, environment, and the unique circumstances they find themselves in.
Horseback riding is an example of a far more hazardous animal-related activity. In fact, many stables and equine event centers post signs informing patrons that participation in equine activities is inherently dangerous. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 1218 people died while riding an animal between 1983 and 1994.
Horses have been known to viciously attack and kill their handlers and even people entering their pastures. A single kick from a horse can cause serious injuries or death. Horses are so powerful that even the strongest person stands no chance of restraining one if it is determined to break loose. When frightened, they flee and can easily trample one to death. Yet, horseback riding remains a popular youth sport.
Why doesn't the neighbor's 1200 pound horse or his Great Dane inspire as much fear as his cougar? I think two factors are involved: fear of the unknown and fear of predators. One of man's most primal fears is that of being eaten by a wild animal, of being the hunted rather than the hunter. Police canine units are so effective in subduing violent individuals that officers report that criminals are often more afraid of a dog than a gun. Offenders are more willing to risk death than a non-fatal bite from a German Shepherd.
Horses and dogs are deeply familiar to us; we've lived with them for centuries, watched them on TV, read cute and fuzzy stories about them, and associate them with companionship and service. When one happens to attack or kill us, we see it as an anomaly.
We know little of exotic cats through direct experience; for most of us, exposure is limited to nature programs emphasizing their killing power and the occasional sensational news article announcing the mauling of some hapless zoo employee. When you think about it, it comes as no surprise that we develop a disporportionate fear of these animals.
The text of a failed Oregon ban bill stated "It is almost impossible for an exotic animal to adapt to traditional household settings" and that "Exotic animals are by nature wild and dangerous and do not adjust well to captivity." These statements are both contradicted by the many thousands of examples of exotic companion animals living healthy, happy lives with Americans nationwide.
I would challenge anyone who truly believes those words to observe my serval Sirocco as he greets me with ecstatic purring and rubs against my legs when I come home from work, and then to watch him curl up beside me purring and licking my face as we watch a movie together. This is not rare; in fact it is typical of the experiences of the majority of exotic cat owners. This cat is as much a member of my family as the domestic dogs and cats you yourself may have lived with and loved.
The failed Oregon HB 3065 stated, "This 2003 Act being necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, an emergency is declared to exist." There is no emergency. Try to find any evidence of a public health or safety crisis being caused by the ownership of exotic animals. I assure you that you will find none. The number of people in the general public killed by escaped exotic cats in the past decade, across the entire United States, is believed to be zero. This includes not only small felines like servals, caracals, and bobcats but also lions, tigers, and cougars.
Now turn your attention to how much death and destruction has been caused by drunken drivers, parole violators, shoddy building contractors and even catholic priests. Shouldn't we as a country focus our efforts on legitimate public safety threats, rather than discriminating against the safe and legitimate activities of the citizens?
These bills are redundant. There are already laws in place providing for the criminal prosecution of those whose actions (and the actions of their animals) recklessly endanger the public. Our civil system is already a more than adequate means to punish those whose animals harm or otherwise disturb members of the public and to provide restitution to those who have been harmed. The extremely low number of incidents involving exotic animals proves the effectiveness of these current laws.
This article may be reprinted in its entirety only. Permission is not granted to reproduce in edited form or to support the ending of exotic pet ownership.
For information on wild and exotic cats from servals to tigers as pets, visit http://www.exoticcatz.com. The site includes articles on care, behavior, housing, and legal issues as well as species profiles and photos.
This article may be reprinted in its entirety only. Permission is not granted to reproduce in edited form or to support the ending of exotic pet ownership.
 Google News Updated : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:08:57 GMT Persistence pays off for Serena at US Open - FOXSports.com
FOXSports.com - by Matt Cronin, Special to FOXSports.com NEW YORK - About nine days after Serena Williams lost in the Wimbledon final to her elder sister, Venus, she was still killing herself, unable to shake her mind of the errors that came late in a contest that she ... Williams beats Jankovic for title, No. 1 ranking Winning US Open never gets old for Serena Williams Publ.Date : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:38:21 GMT Store eases baby bottleneck - Chicago Tribune
Chicago Tribune - When Georgette Finnie e-mailed What's Your Problem? on Aug. 25, she was 9 months' pregnant with her first child. The expectant mom had done some research about the baby bottles she had received as gifts through her baby registry at Babies "R" Us. Hot Docs: Defending Georgia, Girls Married by 15, the Chemical BPA ... That Plastic Baby Bottle Publ.Date : Sun, 07 Sep 2008 12:18:53 GMT Fla. Keys residents weigh evacuation ahead of Ike - The Associated Press
The Associated Press - KEY WEST, Fla. (AP) - As a ferocious Hurricane Ike ripped across Cuba, residents from Key West to the Gulf Coast watched the storm's unpredictable path, worrying it could hit anywhere in the US from Texas to Florida. 'Hurricane fatigue' shows Louisiana still possibility for Ike Publ.Date : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:20:42 GMT McCain Leads Obama 50% to 46%, New Poll Finds, USA Today Reports - Bloomberg Bloomberg - By James Kraus Sept. 8 (Bloomberg) -- Republican presidential candidate John McCain leads Democratic contender Barack Obama by 50 percent to 46 percent among registered voters, according to a weekend USA Today/Gallup Poll, USA Today reported. Convention rejuvenates GOP US campaign sharpens as McCain takes poll lead Publ.Date : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:38:07 GMT Hurricane Ike Crosses Northeast Cuba After Landfall (Update1) - Bloomberg
Bloomberg - By Aaron Sheldrick and Demian McLean Sept. 8 (Bloomberg) -- Hurricane Ike is crossing Cuba after smashing into the northeast of the country with winds of 205 kilometers (125 miles) per hour, according to the US National Hurricane Center. Video: Raw Video: Ike's Harsh Impact on Turks and Caico Hurricane Ike set to batter Cuba Publ.Date : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 06:56:09 GMT "Stand Up to Cancer" tops Friday ratings - Reuters
Reuters - By Paul J. Gough NEW YORK (Hollywood Reporter) - The industrywide "Stand Up to Cancer" telethon averaged a modest 10.3 million viewers during its hour-long simulcast on ABC, NBC and CBS Friday. In a star-heavy telethon, Hollywood takes a stand on cancer 'Stand Up to Cancer' Raises $100M Plus Publ.Date : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:37:28 GMT New Zealand compromises on India nuclear deal - Xinhua
Xinhua - WELLINGTON, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- The New Zealand government said on Monday that it got the best deal it could on nuclear trade with India. Indian shares rise more than 4 pct early Indian rupee rises as stocks rally seen Publ.Date : Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:36:42 GMT Amazon Content |
PARLOT::Ebooks, Scripts,
Websites, and more... Many pet owners don't like using a leash, for a... Read More Breed specific legislation otherwise known as "BSL" has started to... Read More Do you have at least one framed photo of your... Read More Uh-oh, it's that time again. The dreaded vet visit, and... Read More Most pet owners have become very educated about their pet... Read More 1. Accidents and medical emergencies in the home happen frequently.... Read More Location of your aquariumSo, you bought your very first fish... Read More The main ways a puppy will play with another dog... Read More Among the most well known cat lover gifts are photo... Read More Do you really know all there is to know about... Read More Puppy CarePuppy care can be a lot of work, but... Read More It is very important to decide whether to keep your... Read More As I listen on my long drive to my grandpa's... Read More Dogs make great loyal pets and are always pleased to... Read More Dog Shock CollarsDog shock collars are a touchy subject among... Read More I have encountered folks who have complained to me about... Read More The shutting and opening door trick can be taught to... Read More Are you just starting to research the BARF diet for... Read More Advice!!!-Pet products that are useful, fun and enjoyable will make... Read More Peeing on the carpet, knocking you down, or stealing dinner... Read More Although many horsemen and trainers extol the virtues of the... Read More It's important to understand your dog's sleeping habits and how... Read More Everyday someone asks me, "How do you start a pet-sitting... Read More Pet DoorsAre you considering installing a pet door for your... Read More Cockatiels are one of the most lovable pets in the... Read More
Adsense
websites
Using Dog Leash Training to Control Your Pooch
Breed Specific Legislation: Is Your Pit Bull Next?
4 Ways In Which You Can Show Your Dog How Much You Love Him
The Dreaded Vet Visit: 5 Ways to Comfort Your Dog
Veterinarians Set Record Straight
5 Things You Must Do If You Want To Create a First Aid Kit For Your Family
Setting Up A New Aquarium
What You Should Know About Your Puppy And Play Biting
Cat Lover Gifts
5 Tips For Feeding A Happy, Healthy Dog
Puppy Care 101
Horse Stable keeping
Down On The Farm
Protecting Your Child from a Dog Bite
Dog Shock Collars: Teaching Your Dog Basic Obedience and Breaking Bad Habits
Why Dont I Understand My Dog?
Shut The Door Buddy: Simple Dog Tricks To Teach and Impress
BARF Diet For Dogs - Not As Gross As It Sounds!
Small Dog Travel Guide
How to become Top Dog - A Dog Owners Guide to Sanity
Round Pen: The Great Equalizer
What You Should Know About Your Dogs Sleeping Habits
How to Start a Pet-Sitting Business
Pet Doors: Giving Your Pet Freedom to Come and Go as They Please Helps Solve Behavior Problems
Cockatiel Illnesses
Affordable and Reliable Web Hosting Starting at $4.49/Month
Ears Stand Corrected: Cosmetic Surgery and Pets
Are you irritated by your dog's drooping ears or your... Read More
How To Use Horse Training Thinking To Solve Dang Near Any Problem With A Horse
Horse training can be a relatively mysterious subject to people... Read More
Old Fashioned Flea Control
Fleas have plagued dogs, cats, and their owners since time... Read More
The Dangers of Canine Parasites
When you get a puppy, one of the first things... Read More
Our Childrens Story
One we must regrettably share with our children for they... Read More
Herding and the German Shepherd Dog
Once other animals such as cattle, sheep and goats became... Read More
Got Fleas?
Author of Keep Fleas OffStill using all the chemicals you... Read More
First Aid for Felines - How to Keep Your Car Safe from Harm
Cats are known for their curious and adventurous nature. Curiosity... Read More
Why Should I Adopt A Pet
Over the past couple of years, animal rescues have been... Read More
Dog Vaccinations: Doing Shots
Vaccinations play an important part in the preventive healthcare of... Read More
5 Things You Must Do If You Want To Create a First Aid Kit For Your Family
1. Accidents and medical emergencies in the home happen frequently.... Read More
Boston Terrier - Special Concerns For This Adorable Breed
Beautiful as they are, Boston Terriers have some genetic traits... Read More
PH Levels in The Discus Tank
Because it is imperative that discus fish have optimal water... Read More
The Importance Of A Proper Correction
There are headstrong dogs that know too well that a... Read More
Declawing Your Cat
This is a very controversial topic which has a lot... Read More
Seeing Past Cuteness When Selecting the Best Dog Breed For You: Part 2 of 3
Are there so many great dog breeds out there that... Read More
What You Should Know About Your Dog And Frustration
Because your dog lives with humans, he's going to have... Read More
Stop! Dont Give Your Cat That Chocolate!
"Where's the harm? My cat seems to enjoy chocolate and... Read More
Owning a Wild or Exotic Cat; Information, Laws, and Advice
Have you ever dreamed of living with a bobcat or... Read More
Scottish Terrier Dogs - Important Facts
Scottish Terriers are short-legged dogs, at a height of ten... Read More
Understanding Psychology Of Dog Training: Pack Behavior & Establishing Control
Dogs are descendent of wolves. To study the psychology of... Read More
Larger Dog Food Isles
Grocery Stores could use some larger Dog Food Isles. Not... Read More
Discover: How to Prevent Dog Bites Case
Of all the aggressive behavior in dogs dog bites is... Read More
Practical Advice for Adopting a Dog
If you are thinking of adding a dog to your... Read More
Managing Horse Pasture
A major part of a horse's diet is hay or... Read More
Pet |