Speaking out against the tragic incident when a three-year-old boy was mauled by a tiger at the illegal Montekristo zoo on Saturday afternoon, Wildlife Park Malta owner Chris Borg took to Facebook to comment on responsible wild-animal ownership.

The bottom line which Mr Borg highlighted in his Facebook post was that the animals should absolutely never be outside of their enclosure when members of the public are in the vicinity.

“Animals should never be out on a leash when people are around. Yes, it looks nice and attracts visitors but is too risky, especially when young children are around,” he wrote.

He also made it clear that the tiger should in no way be blamed for the incident, as it is a wild animal whose natural instincts should be respected.

“In my opinion the parent with this child should have never let his child get close to a tiger. This has only happened because of lack of responsibility from the parent and an error [of judgement] from the handler.”

He spoke of the need to keep animals’ instincts in mind, “...they are strong and once they attack there is no way back. They are animals that react when they do not like something.”

Mr Borg brought the attention of an incident where the parent of a small child accused him of being aggressive when he did not permit the small child to have a photo taken with cubs in his Wildlife Park. In order to convey how easily accidents can happen when letting members of the public get too close to the animals, Mr Borg wrote “This could have been the result if I allowed your child to enter [the enclosure].”

He urged the authorities to “wake up” to the number of accidents and irregularities that occur in Malta with regard to the improper handling of wild animals.

“This is not the first accident... it is only because it has happened in this place [illegal Montekristo zoo] that the story will grow. Many accidents are happening regularly and authorities close an eye. What about these people that are driving with wild animals in their vehicle?”

“Wake up authorities, as we are close to a big accident. Let’s not wait to learn from mistakes,” he concluded.