By Betsy Anderson of TJT (Tiger’s Justice Team)
Although the TJT News Page is less than a month old, Tiger’s Justice Team itself recently marked its three month anniversary. We began as a small group of concerned individuals, united by our determination to pursue all legal means to achieve justice in the Kristen Lindsey case. We’re grateful to see Tiger’s supporters increase in number as his story spreads, touching people around the world.
Why Tiger, though? Acts of cruelty against animals occur daily, so numerous that we’re in danger of becoming numb to the horrors surrounding us, or feeling too overwhelmed to take action. Our hearts ache for all creatures that suffer needlessly at the hands of monsters in human form, and our minds recoil at the knowledge that we can’t save them all. We can’t even save Tiger. His life ended on April 15, 2015, when a Texas veterinarian named Kristen Lindsey chose him as her “first bow kill, lol.” We can’t divert the arrow that fatally pierced his skull.
Why Tiger, then? What is it about this particular act of cruelty, in the midst of so many, that brought us together, and keeps us united in the fight for justice?
To thoughtlessly slaughter a neighbor’s pet is inexcusable. For a veterinarian to do so is horrific.
To enjoy the act so much that she gleefully posts a photo of her “kill” on social media, and boasts about it, is appalling.
To have such ignorance or disregard of the law that she feels free to publicly display her crime with impunity is disgusting.
To be so disconnected from common decency, and the ethics of her profession, that she sees nothing wrong in what she did, and considers herself worthy of “vet of the year award” is sickening.
Beyond the horror of her photograph, we remain gravely concerned by the implications in Kristen Lindsey’s words. “My first bow kill” strongly suggests that she does not intend it to be her last, and also indicates that she has destroyed other pets using other means. Kristen Lindsey includes “killing things or trying to kill things” as a “current interest” in her blog. Tiger’s slaughter was not an isolated incident, but only one in a series of pleasure killings.
We can’t save Tiger, but together, we can ensure that his death counts for more than a momentary sociopathic thrill. It already has. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world have demanded criminal prosecution and revocation of Kristen Lindsey’s veterinary license. The TBVME received an avalanche of formal complaints, and thousands of letters and phone calls, from over 40 countries. Tiger’s story has already made a difference, raising awareness about the need for humane treatment of outdoor and feral cats. True Blue Animal Rescue, Alley Cat Allies, and supporters everywhere continue working to ensure a lasting legacy of education and assistance through a TNR program established in Tiger’s name.
Tiger’s Justice Team remains committed to pursuing every avenue toward bringing Kristen Lindsey to justice, and supporting animal welfare programs established in Tiger’s memory. Thanks to Tiger’s steadfast supporters, Kristen Lindsey will be remembered with loathing, while Tiger will be remembered with love. Let’s keep his name alive together as we spread the light of justice throughout the world.
Why Tiger?
Because he matters.
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In every profession, there are very sick and sadistic individuals who enter into an opportunistic position in order to satisfy their desires to cause harm. I have seen it in all aspects of healthcare.
Kristen fits the bill. Her job afforded her the opportunity to harm animals, which I believe was her desire.
I wonder how many beloved pets she intentionally killed in her care and fabricated health issues as the cause. Perhaps her vet clinic should investigate.
Well said!