lsu.eduBATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Two animal rights groups are asking that Louisiana State University stop using captive tigers as mascots a day after LSU said its mascot was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
News outlets report People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and LSU Animal Advocates wrote in a letter Tuesday to LSU President F. King Alexander that Mike VI shouldn't be brought out to games this coming season due to his condition.
LSU announced Monday that Mike VI was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma and has a tumor on its face.
The group says the university should instead use only "willing, costumed human mascots."
WAFB-TV reports LSU spokesman Ernie Ballard issued a response to the letter, saying the university is focused on Mike's health and well-being at this time.