Recent reports from Thailand reveal an emerging trend of people keeping exotic creatures such as lions as pets. This unusual practice has become a social issue in the Southeast Asian nation, leading to extended debates over animal rights and national regulations. There has been a significant reaction from Japan, whose citizens hold a vested interest in global animal welfare issues, triggering discussions on international pet trade laws.

In Japan, the welfare of animals, particularly pets, is a widely acknowledged concern. The issue of owning exotic creatures like lions as pets in Thailand strikes a chord with many Japanese citizens. This topic is closely monitored by animal rights groups in Japan, and the general sentiment leans towards stricter international regulation of the exotic pet trade to safeguard both the animals' welfare and public safety.

Unlike in Thailand where laws regarding pet ownership may be lax, in the U.S or the EU, owning exotic animals as pets is heavily regulated. In many places, it is illegal unless under specific circumstances. Authorities view this as a vital step to secure public safety and to prevent animal abuse.