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A video of Tom Sandoval posing with a captive tiger has gone viral. The reality TV star took the clip in a zoo in Asia and shared it on his Instagram story. While the intention of the video may have been harmless, it didn’t sit right with fans. The video sparked outrage from animal rights activists and concerned fans. This reignited the debate surrounding the ethics of using wild animals for entertainment purposes. Besides fans’ complaints, nonprofit organization PETA issued a letter to Vanderpump Rules‘ Tom Sandoval, explaining the negative effects of his actions.
Tom Sandoval Poses With Captive Tiger
Vanderpump Rules’ Tom Sandoval is at the center of controversy once again. This time, it’s because of a video of him posing with a captive tiger. The video, posted by an Instagram fan account, showed Sandoval in a zoo in Thailand, sitting on the ground outdoors with his legs crossed. While at it, two zoo employees positioned a large tiger onto his shoulders. As one staff fed the huge cat from a bottle, the other grabbed its paws to place it on Sandoval. The actor beamed with bravery while sitting at a spot.
Shortly after the video of Tom Sandoval went viral, PETA expressed its disappointment via a message, offering in-depth knowledge of the disadvantages of such acts. Per TMZ, the organization wrote:
“When popular folks like you pose with wild animals, people are moved to support pay-to-play animal experience, for which big-cat cubs are torn away from their mothers prematurely and denied their freedom as well as anything remotely natural and important to them,” the message read.
PETA also stressed that tigers are naturally solitary and reclusive animals, and as such, any human interaction could pose dangers for both humans and the cats.
Fans Tag Sandoval An Animal Abuser
Fans have also taken to Instagram to share their thoughts on the viral video. The majority bashed Sandoval, labeling him an animal abuser.
“Yeah dude. Add animal abuse to your list. You’re 40 years old. GROW UP,” a fan commented.
Another angry follower wrote:
“If Scandoval didn’t cancel him, this surely will. How can he be so unaware of the abuse these animals endure for st***d photo ops?”
A third fan also shared:
“Just when you think you couldn’t dislike the guy any more.”
A fourth person relayed:
“Animals are not circus freaks! Shame on him for supporting this horrible industry.”
A fifth fan shared:
“This is so gross. Just proved how far off he truly is. Like how are you smiling like that?”
Following the Scandoval drama last year, Tom Sandoval has much to do to win back fans to his side. However, posing with a captive tiger isn’t doing him any favors.
