The story of the man who punched a kangaroo in the face has been a big talking point this week. Some people were outraged while others have been arguing that there was little else the bloke could have done when he was saving his pet dog.
Thirty-four-year-old Greig Tonkins was the chap in question and he went viral after a video showing him coming to the rescue of his canine companion by boxing a kangaroo exploded onto the internet.
It was then revealed that Greig works as an elephant keeper at Taronga Zoo and people started getting angry and saying he should be fired.
Well, I'm here to let you know that Greig will be keeping his job.
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The zoo released a statement that read: "Following the events of the last 48 hours in which Greig Tonkins was seen on social media punching a kangaroo in attempt to free his dog from its hold, Taronga has been inundated with concern for Mr Tonkins as well as enquiries regarding Taronga's position on the events.
"Best practice animal welfare and the protection of Australian wildlife are of the utmost importance to Taronga. Taronga strongly opposes the striking of animals and does not support the practice of using dogs to hunt, as this can result in negative welfare for both species.
"Mr Tonkins is an experienced zoo keeper and during his six years at Taronga Western Plains Zoo has always followed Taronga's best practice approach to animal care and welfare. We confirm that there is no suggestion of Mr Tonkins' employment at Taronga Western Plains Zoo ending as a result of this event. However, the highest standards of animal welfare and care are a core value of Taronga and one that we expect our staff to uphold in all their interactions with wildlife and we continue to work with Mr Tonkins on his conduct in regards to this incident."
So there we have it. Don't use dogs to hunt and avoid punching kangaroos unless absolutely necessary. Life advice.
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Featured image credit: YouTube/Viral Hog/Greg Bloom
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