Model Arrested for Illegally Living with “Pet” Lion Cub and Python

Recently, the docu-series Tiger King aired and was watched by millions around the world. Unfortunately, it didn’t expose tiger captivity as it should have and not only are people supporting the animal abuser, but it didn’t do anything to show people just how terrible big cat captivity is. Animal abusers and people who think they should be able to own big cats as “pets” should be punished for it. That’s what happened with a famous model recently.

Qazel Yadegari is a famous Iranian model who was recently arrested in Istanbul. The model posted several photos and videos on Instagram showing her “pet” lion cub and python. One video even showed her kissing the lion cub’s neck. On another the lion cub is laying near where her dog is. Another video shows her driving with a python wrapped around her hand.

After investigating the illegal sale of exotic animals online, authorities came upon her posts. They found that the Asiatic lion cub and the python were smuggled into Instanbul. She and her two assistants were arrested. The animals were tranquilized and confiscated.

The model claims she was keeping the animals as a hobby, but wild animals are not “pets” or hobbies. People who think they are fuel the illegal wildlife trade and drive animals to extinction.

Sign this petition to Support the Big Cat Public Safety Act and put an end to big cat ownership.

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