The Netflix Documentary Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness showcases the systematic abuse of wild animals, including tigers, lions, monkeys, bears, etc., within private ownership, zoos, exhibits, and interactive experiences. It has long been known that the private ownership of these animals is not only dangerous for them, but also law enforcement, neighborhoods, and the public.

The documentary showcased one business in Las Vegas, The Jungle Bus (1-844-PET-ACUB), which toured the Las Vegas Strip and city while allowing visitors to handle wild animals, including baby tigers, lions, and monkeys. The business of “cub petting” relies on a constant supply of baby wild animals (8-12 weeks old) to support the demand. However, once these animals “age out”, legally the public may only handle big cats between the ages of 8-12 weeks old, they are often discarded through the sell to ill equipped private owners, abandonment, or euthanasia.

Nevada is the most welcoming and hospitable state of the union, but “Home Means Nevada” should not mean for exotic animals. Residents and tourist alike should be ensured that Nevada values the lives and quality of life of animals and the safety of people.

We ask that the State of Nevada steps up to discourage the private ownership and breeding of wild animals in our state, including tigers, lions, bears, primates, and other exotic animals not native to North America. Furthermore, we encourage Nevada to end the legalization of “cub petting” and the private ability to monetize the interaction or observation of exotic animals.