Original post by vetboy45 — 2012-11-09 23:00:23 GMT

I work for King County (Seattle area) animal control and we recently impounded 7 snakes, including a 9 foot Boa. Unfortunately , we don't have the facilities to keep these guys. I would really like to see this have a good outcome so I need some assistance in finding a rescue to take them. Thanks

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Original post by jaclyn206 — 2012-05-08 08:51:59 GMT

So I live in Seattle,WA, I found a mosaic gargoyle gecko outside in a very nice aquarium set up, by a dumpster! It's freaking beginning of May in SEATTLE! He or she is still alive, barely,It will not move, I don't know how long it was out in the elements! I brought it inside plugged in the heat rock and luckily had a heat lamp for emergencies such as this! I had a white spotted gecko years ago, but I'm not very experienced and I need to know what to do to save this little guy or gal! So is it like hibernating, or what? What do I do please help! And if I can get it back to health is there animal shelters that take these lizards, I already have two dogs, two cats (all rescues) and I'm fostering another dog and cat in a very small apartment with my boyfriend and five year old daughter! Plus the reason I don't have that spotted gecko anymore is because I couldn't handle the live bugs EHHHH!!! I don't like bugs at all! If this little one can eat dead bugs or pinkies or mashed fruit then I'll keep it. But that aside I don't want it to die someone help please!

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Original post by OliveJewel — 2011-08-06 04:29:25 GMT

I was thinking that if people had animals that they just wanted to adopt out (not sell) it would be nice if there was a *free* board for that. People who are not looking to get any money, just find a good home for a good reptile. Am I posting this in the right section?
-----
Lisa Rakestraw
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My skinks:
1.1.1 Corucia zebrata (Berman and Joni, baby Charlemagne)
2.2.2 Eumeces schneideri (Jack and Mabel; Kaa and Cochisa their babies)
0.0.4 Egernia striolata

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Original post by — 2011-03-01 11:37:31 GMT

DESERET NEWS (Salt Lake City, Utah) 22 February 11 Reptile Rescue Service founder honored for service to wide array of reptiles, amphibians and wild mammals (Marjorie Cortez)
First you have to get by the guard dogs.
Once inside James Dix's home, which doubles as the headquarters for his Reptile Rescue Service, there's a surprise around every corner.
Earl the raccoon is in a wire cage below that of skunk. Next them are three alligators. Next to them is a pool teaming with 525 red-eared slider turtles, which were impounded by police because they were too small to be sold.
In the garage, heated to a toasty 90 degrees, one finds dozens of exotic snakes, including a python that killed a human and a not-so petite 21-foot tiger reticulated python that weighs in at about 250 pounds.
And on a typical Friday in the not-so-typical life of Dix, the rescue's founder and chief volunteer, he's heading out the door to a construction job. On the way home, he's picking up two turtles and three snakes to add to the 850-plus snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators, tortoises, frogs as well as a few coyotes, raccoons and a skunk presently living in or about his home.
This past week, Dix was honored by Salt Lake County as a 2011 Vital Volunteer during a brief ceremony in the County Council Chambers for "his efforts to care and rescue sick, impounded, endangered and unwanted reptiles and other animal species," said Salt Lake Mayor Peter Corroon.
He was also recognized for the outreach programs he provides to educate people about the importance of treating all species of animals with respect. Reptile Rescue also offers safe-handling classes to animal control officers, peace officers and the Utah Animal Control Officers Association.
Dix, who is assisted by seven other volunteers including two veterinarians who specialize in exotic animals, has permits from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to hold, rescue, provide care and exhibit exotic animals and snake species.
Dix's interest in reptiles stems back to his childhood in California, where he lived on a private lake near Simi Valley.
"I've been doing reptiles, collecting them and having them as pets since I was 12 and I'm 51 currently," Dix said. "I caught a lot of snakes, frogs and amphibians and it stayed with me."
The rescue started with Dix adopting a box turtle from Salt Lake County Animal Services for $5.
He was told if the the turtle wasn't adopted that it would be euthanized. That led to more questions about the collective fate of reptiles that end up in area animal shelters, although Dix admits, "Of all the animals I deal with, tortoises and turtles are my favorites."
He was told reptiles that weren't adopted or purchased by pet stores would be put down. "I decided to help by taking some of the reptiles from shelters and that's how I got started doing this."
Unfortunately, the need for Dix's service is ongoing. The rescue saves 400 to 700 animals a year. Some are permanent residents of the rescue while others are cared for until they can be adopted. Many are sent out of state.
While some end up in Dix's care through owner neglect or through law enforcement seizures, some animal lovers purposely seek out Dix's help when they have to give up a pet.
Audrie Ercanbrack credits Dix for saving "Earl" the raccoon. She found Earl and a littermate when they were babies. The littermate died of internal injuries but she kept Earl until she learned it was illegal for her to keep him. She learned of Dix through word of mouth.
"If it wasn't for Jim, he would have been euthanized. Jim has been a lifesaver for him and me," Ercanbrack said while visiting the raccoon, now 9 months old.
Some of the animals end up in Dix's care through human indifference. He's rescued snakes from trash Dumpsters and lizards thrown over the fences into animal shelters and the zoo.
Some people simply get in over their heads when they purchase snakes, which when young may be only a foot long and as big around as a man's index finger.
But they grow three to five feet a year. That could mean a 15-foot, 150-pound snake in three years.
It can be challenging to locate food that they want, such as live rabbits or rats, because few pet stores sell them, not to mention the increasing expense as large, exotic snakes grow. A large snake may need to eat three five-pound rabbits a week.
"As long as they're full and happy, they won't try to hurt you or bite you. If you can't feed that snake properly, then it's going to be hungry and get aggressive. I get ornery when I don't get enough or eat on time," Dix said.
He plans to move from the residential neighborhood where the rescue is currently located to a commercial building within a couple of months.
There, he hopes to have more space to properly display his vast menagerie and share with the public their intrinsic "beauty."
"A lot of people just misunderstand them. A snake can kill you, yes, but you have to also remember you have to respect than any wild animal. A dog, can kill you, and that's domestic," he said. "You just don't hear a lot about it like when a reptile does it."
Reptile Rescue Service founder honored for service to wide array of reptiles, amphibians and wild ma

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Original post by — 2011-03-01 11:30:03 GMT

DAILY TIMES (Cedar Valley, Iowa) 22 February 11 Snakes alive - Reptile rescuers step in after fire (Jack Swanson)
Oelwein: Three snakes that survived a house fire in Oelwein, Wednesday, Feb. 16, were still alive, Monday, thanks to the efforts of Northeast Iowa Reptile Rescue in Independence.
“The night of the fire in Oelwein we received a call from one of our fosters/adoptees. They called us to inform us that their house was on fire and the reptiles were still inside and the fire department would not let the people who rented out the home go in to get them. About 1 1/2 hours later we got a knock on the door from a good Samaritan who brought us four snakes,” said Joshua Lange, owner of NEIRR.
Firefighters reported the tenants of the house, who escaped unharmed, also had three dogs that were not injured. The house, located at 134 N. Frederick Ave., sustained heavy smoke and fire damage on the main level, as well as smoke and some fire damage on the second floor.
Lang took the surviving snakes to a veterinarian’s office in Iowa City for treatment.
Co-operater of the reptile rescue Ashley Henninger said reptile vets are hard to find in Iowa and they charge more for services because they are specialists. Iowa City was the nearest option.
“They checked them out but there wasn’t much they could do for them at that point,” Lange said.
The NEIRR is a licensed rescue with the Department of Agriculture and the state of Iowa. It is a non-profit organization and has been in business for more than a year.
“There was an Iguana in the fire to but unfortunately the Iguana did perish in the fire. As of today (Monday) we have three snakes left. All of our hard work was not enough for an adult ball python. He ended up passing away in the night due to smoke inhalation. We now currently still have one Brazilian Rainbow Boa that is in critical condition and it is touch and go with him. There are two baby ball pythons and they seem to be doing okay so far. The larger baby ball python did suffer from burns on his body,” Lang pointed out.
Lang said the occupants of the house were serving as foster owners for many other reptiles, similar to a pet rescue operation for dogs and cats. He said most of those reptiles, which he did not name specifically, also died in the fire.
“There was a lot of reptiles in the house. Our rescue program took a big hit. They lost tanks, heating pads, cages and a lot of other equipment and supplies, besides the reptiles. It’s been a very tragic thing. We’ve been trying to get the reptile side of the thing out to the public but we don’t expect too much help because of the hype about snakes and reptiles, but people need to realize that they are people’s pets too, just like cats or dogs,” Lange said.
Lange related that he has been around snakes and reptiles since he was a youngster and decided to do something about the “mistreatment and neglect” that he believes has been given to reptiles in general. He also hopes to provide a learning experience about snakes and reptiles through the shelter.
“It’s always better to have a good experience with a reptile than a bad one,” he pointed out.
The rescue provides standard rehabilitation for unhealthy or sick reptiles, including feeding, vet care and medical treatments.
Reptile rescuers step in after fire

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Original post by EricWI — 2011-02-09 02:04:58 GMT

RALEIGH -- Zachary D'Alessio shares his apartment with three ball pythons, a mouse-eating menagerie that curls around his neck, twists around his arm and greets him with fork-tongued kisses.

Three makes a wriggling handful - especially Basil, who is pregnant with six.

But at 21, D'Alessio aches for the unwanted snakes turned loose into the woods, evicted by the college student who couldn't afford a bigger tank, discarded by the birthday boy who preferred Nintendo. So he and some friends sent out an invitation on Craigslist.com: All homeless slitherers accepted here. Space for 40. Venom OK.

From what local herpetologists can tell, D'Alessio's newly formed Carolina Reptile Rescue is the Triangle's only snake rescue. There's an informal network of people who'll stash a corn snake here, a milk snake there.

But nobody else would accept a red-tail boa, a 125-pound cast-off whichD'Alessio will soon welcome into his nest.

"They have a kid on the way," D'Alessio said of the boa's former family. "I'm supposed to pick him up tomorrow. The guy wanted to say his final goodbye to the snake, and I respect that."

Inspiration comes from having seen too much cruelty, ignorance and neglect. Toomany people buy Burmese pythons, never knowing they can reach 20 feet and 200 pounds.

In south Florida, so many have been dumped that they are devouring the native wildlife, including endangered storks. The snakes themselves fare no better in the wild, dying in winter freezes.

D'Alessio has seen serpents meet the sad end. Once, in Greenville, he found a 4-foot python floating dead in the Tar River - obviously a tossed-out reptile refugee wondering how it got so far from Ghana.

What D'Alessio has in mind is a collection of snake-loving college students united under one banner, operating a serpent shelter with donated tanks.

"We just can't see snakes thrown out," said Alex Dancer, 18.

Supplies won't be a problem. Samantha, the 10-pound python D'Alessio adopted last week, came with a pair of tanks courtesy of her grateful former owner. Mice will come from sympathetic snake breeders, and if that doesn't suffice, D'Alessio knows how to breed them.

From there, Carolina Reptile Rescue will operate a snake adoption program. Details are being hashed out, but the idea is to have new owners sign a waiver agreeing to have their snake tanks inspected after a week or so.

"I'm not saying you need an electronic thermostat,"D'Alessio said. "I'm saying you need bedding, a decent water pond, a heat source and a hide box."

With three pythons in his southwest Raleigh apartment, D'Alessio doesn't seem like a herpephile in over his head. You wouldn't even guess that inside this nondescript building off Lineberry Road, there's a trio of constrictors.

Besides being pregnant, Basil has a respiratory ailment that requires medicine fed orally through a dropper each day. When D'Alessio got her, part of her tail had been cut off, leaving a stump.

Then there's Dao in the tank across the room, whose neurological issues cause him to turn repeated back flips. Meanwhile, Samantha is shedding.

It's a lot to keep your eye on, but D'Alessio is already thinking of switching from mechanical engineering to veterinary science at Wake Tech.

Ask him how he developed such fondness for a creature long associated with sneakiness and sin and D'Alessio will tell you that snakes can do so much more than dogs. They're so much more mobile, he explains as a python knots itself around his fist.

Someone needs to watch out for the legless among us. Someone needs to shelter the beasts that crawl through life on their bellies. From his student apartment, D'Alessio offers his warm heart to the cold-blooded.
www.newsobserver.com/2011/02/07/973376/snakes-have-friend-in-raleigh.html

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Original post by — 2011-02-03 13:52:22 GMT

WCAX (Burlington, Vermont) 01 February 11 Reptiles reign supreme at local rescue (Rachel Feldman)
Wanna iguana? How about a bearded dragon? Or an 11-foot red tail boa? Well, they're all right here in Vermont courtesy of Ivana Iguana Wisdom and Rescue.
JoAnn Nichols runs the non-profit reptile rescue out of her wonderfully warm home in Burlington.
"It's kept at 90 degrees all winter long in here for the reptiles," Nichols says while surveying the bevy of reptiles that, for the most part, live in a single room.
Thirty-one reptiles, to be exact. In the winter that means nearly $500 a month in heat and electric bills. Some of that is covered through donations and fundraisers but most of it comes out of Nichols' own pocket.
Some of the reptiles at Ivana Iguana are available for adoption to Vermonters, but other animals in the house are illegal for anyone in the state to own.
"I have a couple of permits with the Department of Fish and Wildlife that allow me to work with these species," Nichols explains.
One of those is a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit. That allows Nichols to take in animals like the eastern box turtle, which is a wild animal and thus off-limits for Vermonters to keep as pets.
"That permit also allows Ivana Iguana to take in exotic species that are illegal in Vermont and they have to be re-homed outside of Vermont," she says.
In the meantime Nichols cares for all of them, and when it comes to reptiles every species has slightly different needs.
"I read a lot, read books and find out information," Nichols says, explaining how she amassed such a wide range of knowledge.
Nichols got her college degree in art, but after over a decade of working with animals and a small team of experts she feels able to handle a lot. That includes some things that most people aren't brave enough to handle at all, for example, the 11-foot red tail boa.
"A reptile this size, you don't want them around your neck area," she says while wrangling the snake. "He can definitely strangle someone."
Nichols says a lot of reptiles come to her because people don't do their research. In the case of many snakes it's the size, which can come as a shock to owners. Other times people don't realize they've purchased an illegal exotic. However, Nichols says the fear of legal repercussions is not a reason to keep a pet that can't be cared for.
"As long as people are reaching out and trying to do the right thing generally my experience is that they're not getting in trouble," she says.
But until the animals find a new home Nichols makes sure there's a warm place for them to go.
If you have a reptile and are wondering if it's legal to own, there's a list of legal pets on the Fish and Wildlife Department's website.
Reptiles reign supreme at local rescue

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Original post by — 2010-12-22 17:41:29 GMT

GREEN VALLEY/HENDERSON VIEW (Nevada) 14 December 10 Society unites reptile, amphibian enthusiasts - Members aim to educate public about exotic species (Maggie Lillis)
From novice to expert, young to old, reptile, amphibian or human, all are welcome in the Southern Nevada Herpetological Society.
The nonprofit organization is dedicated to educating members and the public about everything reptile and amphibian. The society meets monthly to discuss the proper maintenance, treatment and breeding of the creatures. The group also discusses the history of the exotic animals.
But at their root, they're animal enthusiasts eager to pass on their passion to anyone with a desire to learn more.
"We have people who are professional zoologists, herpetologists and those who just own a corn snake," said Kimberly Foose, membership secretary and treasurer.
Foose's husband owns Exotic Pets, 2410 N. Decatur Blvd., Suite 160, the unofficial club hub. She, like many of the 200 group members, plays keeper to a host of reptiles and amphibians.
"I like lizards," Foose said. "A lot of people are amazed (these animals) are like a big dogs. They want to lie there and be pet."
Member Chuck Meyer keeps about 15 exotic pets, and although most eat only once a week, there are tricks to being a good owner.
"It's not as simple as a dog or cat," he said. "Each species has their own needs."
He's experienced his share of snake escapes and bites -- it took about two weeks to find in his finger 10 missing teeth from his pine snake.
"It's a little bit dangerous, which makes it exciting," he said. "The squeamish factor is kind of fun."
The group also fosters the future of herpetology, the scientific study of reptiles and amphibians. The Junior Herpers group is open to young people ages 4 to 17.
Todd Gadol-Tait, 14, and his family have filled their home with frogs, toads, geckos, lizards, snakes, turtles and tortoises -- and hedgehogs, cats, dogs, bird and ferrets.
Todd joined Junior Herpers last summer and tries to attend informational presentations put on by the society and show-and-tell events. He brought a few members of his collection to a club event at a nursing home.
He showed off his corn snake William, and his grandmother brought her turtles Thelma and Louise.
"It was a really good experience," he said. "A lot were telling stories of when they had pets."
He and his grandmother scour craigslist for pets in need. Todd has a soft spot for disabled pets.
"We have a bearded dragon that couldn't see and had broken legs. We had to hand-feed her crickets," he said.
Their snake, Alberto, was deprived of food and water by a previous owner and is still recovering from self-mutilating bite marks, Todd said.
Club board member and UNLV professor ML Robinson said he thinks common mishandling or abuse of the unique animals could be avoided by attending a Southern Nevada Herpetological Society meeting.
Most people don't take into consideration the longevity of the animals, which can be a death sentence for them when owners lose interest, he said.
"Some of the snakes can live 30 or more years; some tortoises can live 50 or 80 (years)," he said. "It's a long-term commitment. We want people to know what the commitment is."
The group is open to new members. Meetings are held at the Nevada Cooperative Extension, 8050 Paradise Road, Suite 100.
The club plans a San Diego Zoo field trip set for Jan. 14. The fee for transportation and a zoo ticket is $95 for adults and $85 for children 3-11.
The next main group meeting is 7:30 p.m. Feb. 4 at the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, 8050 Paradise Road.
For more information, visit snhs.info or call 203-0841.
Society unites reptile, amphibian enthusiasts

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Original post by — 2010-12-21 12:39:50 GMT

THE PROVINCE (Vancouver, British Columbia) 21 December 10 Reptile rescuer to wrangle an alligator (Sam Cooper)
"I hope it goes smoothly, but it is an alligator, so you never know."
That's what Abbotsford reptile rescuer Mike Hopcraft said Monday, as he got mentally prepared to wrangle an eight-foot, 250-pound gator this afternoon.
Hopcraft said he'll take a team of people to a home in Langley to remove the gator from a small enclosure and relocate it to a new alligator enclosure at his facility in Abbotsford.
The gator was not abused, but the owner planned to leave the country and could not take the exotic pet with him, Hopcraft says.
When the owner requested Hopcraft's services, he secured a special permit from the government to keep the gator.
"It's lived in the enclosure with minimal human contact for most of its life, so it could get interesting," Hopcraft predicted.
He said three men will jump on the gator once a lasso-style rope is looped around its powerful jaws.
Hopcraft will be on the gator's back, the most dangerous position he says, and one man will be on the tail, and one on the legs.
"I'm confident but this is the biggest crocodilian species I've ever worked with," he said. "Alligators are insanely strong."
He said after the gator is grabbed, he and members of the Greater Vancouver Zoo staff will examine it before transporting it to Abbotsford.
Reptile rescuer to wrangle an alligator

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Original post by — 2010-12-10 17:54:37 GMT

WGRZ (Buffalo, New York) 04 December 10 R.A.R.E. Helps Injured, Unwanted Reptiles (Sarah Hopkins)
Cheektowaga, N.Y.: Marion Janusez handles reptiles with a tenderness often reserved for a newborn child, but that's because the animals are her babies.
"I don't know," Janusez said with a laugh, "They're just perfect, as far as I'm concerned!"
Enter her home and no matter where you direct your gaze you'll see evidence of the scaley objects of her affection-- whether they're alive or not, real or fake.
"I just love how independent they are," said Janusez. "They fascinate me, the moment they're born they're on their own, and I'm a very independent person myself, and I think I admire that."
Janusez is the driving force behind R.A.R.E. (Reptile Adoption, Rehabilitation, and Education), a unique animal shelter that's dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured or unwanted reptiles; it's so unique, she says she gets calls and email from people all around the world.
Her Cheektowaga home doubles as homebase for the non-profit, and shelters dozens of reptiles, with yearly bills that add up to more than $12,000.
"We don't charge for surrenders because I don't want people just throwing them outside or letting them die in the cellar," said Janusez. "But we just ask for a donation. If you don't have it, we'll take the animal anyway."
The unwanted pets often come from children-- and their parents-- in over their heads with a new pet. She says she got four drop-offs this week alone from college students leaving for school.
Janusez takes as many as she can with an ultimate goal of finding them new homes; however, she is picky about who can adopt.
"I want somebody that's really going to care for this animal," said Janusez.
R.A.R.E. Helps Injured, Unwanted Reptiles

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Original post by EricWI — 2010-11-19 13:12:24 GMT

Iowa Reptile Rescue hopes it will be rescued

It needs $2,500 to cover rent and food (rats and vegetables) for 80 homeless reptiles and amphibians.
Hello, my name is Jose. I'm a green iguana.

Adopt me!

Jose's plea will soon need a few more exclamation points - unless his caretakers raise $2,500 by the end of the month.

The rough economy has taken its toll on Iowa Reptile Rescue, which is home to about 80 reptiles and amphibians that, for many reasons, are homeless.

Jason and Robin Argo started the rescue 2feet," Jason Argo said.

The Argos need $2,500 by Nov. 27 to catch up on money owed for their lease and rats and vegetables that their homeless critters eat. They've raised more than $600 so far.

The rescue has between 60 and 100 animals at any given time, depending on demand and other factors. The Animal Rescue League, which does animal control work for the city of Des Moines, has an agreement with the Argos to place all wayward reptiles and amphibians with them.

The Argos use a two-week waiting period on all adoptions to be sure the creatures find the right home.

"Everybody wants to adopt, but we're real picky," Jason Argo said.

Zac Sadler, who manages another store in the mall, said he would hate to see the group leave the mall or close.

"They try really hard to do the right thing," Sadler said. "It's truly a good cause."

Argo said they've found a lawyer who is willing to do free work to help the rescue become a not-for-profit organization. That would make it eligible for grants to make the rescue solvent, even in tough times, he said.

But first, they need to pay the bills.
www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20101119/NEWS/11190304/-1/SPORTS09/Iowa-Reptile-Rescue-hopes-it-will-be-rescued

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Original post by vareptilerescue — 2010-10-31 03:15:33 GMT

Rescues are asked to consider joining the National Amphibian and Reptile Rescue Alliance (www.reptilerescuealliance.org).

We have a basic code of ethics to follow. If you can agree to our code of ethics, we ask that you let us know so that you can be included as a member.
NARRA

-----
Bonnie Keller
VA Reptile Rescue
www.vareptilerescue.org

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Original post by — 2010-10-27 12:19:28 GMT

CORNISH GUARDIAN (Truro, UK) 12 October 10 Cornwall Council urged to step in and save tortoise sanctuary from 'farse' closure
An MP has called on Cornwall Council to "end the farce" over the closure of a popular tortoise sanctuary – after the Government confirmed it is in the local authority's power to leave it open.
Stephen Gilbert, MP for St Austell, has requested that the council review its decision to change the status of the sanctuary, which houses 400 tortoises.
In August this year the Tortoise Garden's owner, Jan Bloor, said she had been forced to close after council chiefs reclassified her business as a zoo.
Mrs Bloor is unable to afford to adhere to strict guidelines and regular inspections which she says can cost up to £25,000 a year.
She said she was "absolutely devastated" to have to close the site in Sticker, near St Austell, which attracted 12,000 visitors annually.
Now, Mr Gilbert is calling on the council to back track and allow The Tortoise Garden to reopen under its old classification.
His office claims that in the letter from Defra Minister Lord Henley, he says that "the responsibility for deciding whether an animal collection meets the definition of a zoo falls to the local authority."
Mr Gilbert said: "It's time this game of pass the parcel ended. Lord Henley's letter has confirmed that Cornwall Council have the power to rule that the Tortoise Garden isn't classed as a zoo, and should not be forced into incurring the extra costs of a zoo licence.
"I have written to Councillor Lance Kennedy, the Cabinet Member for Environmental Health and asked that, considering the new letter, he ends this farce by reviewing his decision and allowing the Tortoise Garden to reopen immediately."
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Lord Henley holds the portfolio for "welfare of companion and wild animals" at the Department.
Cornwall Council was unavailable for comment.
Cornwall Council urged to step in and save tortoise sanctuary from 'farse' closure

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Original post by po — 2010-09-15 04:23:51 GMT

trying to help someone on craigslist over the last few days with a dog issue (12 yrs as a vet tech, I think I'm allowed) and b/c I said I rescue reptiles (allergic husband, limits me to herps) I was told I'm "rude" (and other things I will not put on here)! If I had the room I would take in the dogs, but I can't, I was totally "yelled" at because I only take in herps!!
The person bad mouthing me me out meant to send it to the original poster, just proves how stupid they are!!

again, had to vent, as a responsible rescuer, I am still the "bad guy" when trying to help, because what I usually help are not the cuddle/fluffs of the "normal word", GRRRRRRRR!!!
-----
hanging out under heat lights burns up my brain cells!!

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Original post by — 2010-09-13 12:10:02 GMT

GENEVA SUN (Illinois) 08 September 10 Geneva couple plan Reptile Rescue effort - Exotic tortoise captures hearts of Geneva couple; now they plan to establish Reptile Rescue (Linda Girardi)
Geneva: Rhonda enjoys afternoons rustling through blades of grass, basking in the sun's rays, and munching on romaine lettuce, escarole, dandelion greens and the occasional slice of watermelon, prickly pear or fig.
Alice and Ron Marine rescued Rhonda a year ago from an owner no longer interested in having the tortoise after Rhonda had grown too large for her living space.
"People go to reptile fairs where they can buy baby turtles, without realizing how quickly they will grow," Alice said. "People should really do their research before they buy a turtle, and never buy one on impulse."
Rhonda grew to 62 pounds in eight years, and she's still growing. She'll weigh more than 100 pounds when fully grown, Alice said.
The Geneva couple said the original owner had the turtle in an apartment and had dropped her, leaving the reptile with a broken shell and permanent nerve damage in her hind legs, which makes it difficult for Rhonda to walk.
"He didn't want her anymore and was going to put her to sleep," Alice said.
Rhonda is a domesticated African spurred tortoise, also known as an African desert tortoise. She has a calm disposition, and her shell is the color of the Sahara desert, which hides her from predators. The spurred tortoise (Geochelone sulcata) species is known as the third-largest in the world and can live for 80 years.
Ron, a passionate house rehabber who has restored homes on the National Register of Historic Places, built the tortoise a retreat summer house in keeping with their riverfront home.
The home's exterior, painted in dark green with red and white trim, resembles an Italian cottage by the sea. The front yard's decorative iron fence has a sign that says "Turtle Cottage."
The spurred tortoise cannot tolerate temperatures below 55 degrees, so in cold months she lives in the couple's family room, accompanied by three lively dogs -- a bull terrier and two Italian greyhounds -- a cat named Mr. Orange, and a bird.
Once a week, the tortoise is bathed for purposes of absorbing moisture and relaxation. Her damaged shell has fully mended after veterinarian treatments.
"She's very happy this summer," Ron said.
The couple have grown so fond of Rhonda that they have decided to establish a Reptile Rescue on a farmette they own on State Street in Geneva.
"When we came across Rhonda, we realized what a magnificent thing she really is and that she came so close to being destroyed," Alice said.
"We realized there is a real need," she said. "There are all kinds of dog and cat rescues, but no reptile rescues."
The couple have specified in their wills that their pets are to be cared for by their son and friends. The animals include an African gray parrot, which also can live to be 80.
They said Rhonda recovered from an upper respiratory infection over the winter.
"We brought her in to the veterinarian three times a week -- we were very worried," Alice said.
A donation can for Rhonda's care that is affixed to the front yard fence recently was stolen.
"We were pretty upset about it," Alice said. "We assumed nobody would steal a donation can for a turtle. It's pretty bad when someone steals donations for a crippled turtle and future homeless reptiles."
Someone who heard about the theft dropped off a can of coins to help cover the loss.
The couple are building accommodations for the care of other unwanted and abandoned reptiles.
"People have liked tortoises over time, including Napoleon," Alice said.
"When we adopted Rhonda, people started coming to the house to see her. I don't know what the connection is for people, but there definitely is something there. I think at first they are shocked by her size. And once they get to see how gentle she is, they become very fond of her.
"She has such a sweet soul."
Donations for Reptile Rescue can be sent to Alice and Ron Marine, 33W929 State St., Geneva, IL 60134.
Geneva couple plan Reptile Rescue effort

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Original post by dmorr001 — 2010-06-06 00:58:31 GMT

First off, I would like to thank all those who post on these forums for all the info I have gathered here in the past (long-time reader, first-time poster). Here is my situation: I got a phone call yesterday to the effect that an old friend had been sent to prison for what may be more than a year, and could I please come pick up his reptiles and find homes for them? As it turned out, only two snakes (Cal. Mtn. King and Solomon Islands Boa) and an Alligator Snapper. The snakes aren't going to be a problem, but the turtle is. I called the "Wildlife Waystation" and they sounded willing to help, but a bit unenthusiastic. So if anyone here could point me towards a clean, reputable reptile rescue outfit or perhaps a college/university that might be willing to take it, that would be very much appreciated...I imagine a license is required for snappers in CA and it is about 16" carapace length, so I am worried that I may not be able to find a place for it. I only have a few days before the the guy's dad calls animal control to remove it, and there is no way I can have it at home, even temporarily. I just want to find a decent place for it rather than some breeder/retailer running a "rescue" operation. Thank you all very much for you time and for any forthcoming assistance!

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Original post by robbeardies — 2010-06-05 21:11:50 GMT

I have a 2 year old female bearded dragon that has been to the vet twice, fecals taken(negative) and she had a eye infection, and she has fungal patches on the same side as her infected eye. I am currently treating her with reptaid and acidophiliz by pet authority to hopefully heal her. She eats live prey but slowed way down on the greens and went from 268 grams to 246 in about a month. It looks like her eye got like real dry and flaky around it. My problem is, i don't know what else to do with her, she keeps going and i can't do anymore with her as far as expenses to keep holding on to her and i want her to still have a chance at recovering. Would anybody suggest a reptile rescue herp to turn her over to? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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Original post by PHFaust — 2010-01-21 17:08:04 GMT

In yet another attack on the reptile community, today Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will look to list the "Big 9" from the USGS survey published in October on the Lacey Act as injurious species:

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will propose to list the Burmese python and eight other large constrictor snakes that threaten the Everglades and other sensitive ecosystems as "injurious wildlife" under the Lacey Act.

Salazar made the announcement at the Port of New York, which serves as the largest point of entry in the nation for imports of wildlife and wildlife products. Last year, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Inspectors at John F. Kennedy International Airport handled more than 27, 000 separate wildlife shipments valued at more than $1 billion, or 16 percent of all U.S. wildlife imports.

The proposal, which will be open to public comment before Salazar makes a final decision, would prohibit importation and interstate transportation of the animals.

"The Burmese python and these other alien snakes are destroying some of our nation�s most treasured � and most fragile � ecosystems," Salazar said. "The Interior Department and states such as Florida are taking swift and common sense action to control and eliminate the populations of these snakes, but it is an uphill battle in ecosystems where they have no natural predators. If we are going to succeed, we must shut down the importation of the snakes and end the interstate commerce and transportation of them."

This allows us yet another opportunity to refute the bad science involved with both HR2811 and S373. The FWS will publish the proposed rule change in the federal register in early February.

Once it's published, the public will have sixty days to offer comment, after which the waiting game begins again.

As soon as the comment period opens, we'll let you know what action to take, and where.

Even now, it's not too late -- or too early! -- to make calls, reach out to your senators and representatives. Let them know this proposal is based on bad science, that you're part of the reptile community and that you vote!
Fish & Wildlife to add pythons to Lacey act

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Cindy Steinle
phfaust@pethobbyist.com
PHFaust
Visit kingsnake on Facebook!
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Original post by VAReptileRescue — 2009-10-06 22:55:52 GMT

Just wondering which other rescues are on Facebook. I've seen CoRHS and Forgotten Friend. Anyone else?
Link

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Bonnie Keller
VA Reptile Rescue
www.vareptilerescue.org

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Original post by Yankee_Em — 2009-07-22 00:30:32 GMT

Hello, all. I'm new to this forum so if this isn't the appropriate place to post this, I do apologize. I'm new to reptiles, but have done a lot of research and would like to get a corn snake (not right away, but likely within a few months or so). I was wondering if anyone was aware of any decent snake/reptile rescues in the New England area? I'd prefer to adopt a snake that needs a home, if at all possible, but I haven't had much luck finding reptile rescues in my area, and many rescues won't ship their reptiles (understandably). I've always preferred to adopt animals when possible. If anyone can help me out I'd really appreciate it. Thanks very much!
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Yankee_Em
1.0.0 Boyfriend, Adam (domestic, live-in variety)
2.0.0 cats, O'Reily and Lukie
1.0.0 betta splendens, Admiral Charles von Charles, the Crimson Dreadfish, Defender of the Bowl, Vanquisher of Mirrors, and Scourge of All Wormkind (don't ask).
No herps yet, but hoping and planning

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