It seems that the catalyst for regulations of exotics is the carelessness & stupidity of a very few of the keepers. In Louisiana we had the DWF recommend to a House Committee the need for permits for all reptiles and non-human primates in Louisiana. This was not at the urging of PETA or HSUS, even though they applauded and urged the passage after it was introduced to the House & Senate, but a response to a bust in New Orleans of a house full of monkeys that were not being given adequate care and the escape of a 12ft Burmese python from a camper. Because of both incidents, laws were going to be passed. It was fortunate that the Louisina Gulf Coast Herpetological Society was tipped off by the LA-SPCA about the impending regulations. They immediately sprang into action, notifing all of their membership (100 ) and calling and writing Senators at the 11th hour. It was defeated and rewritten to only include constrictors over 12' and venomous snakes. Where was PETA & HSUS?

I think that the only time that they jump on the bandwagon is when it is already moving. I don't think they instigate as much as they really just like to stir the pot after it starts cooking. We seem to give them too much credit for things that they didn't actually start. I don't think that they want to expend the money or manpower to start a fight but they will jump in. ~Bill~
Link

[ Show Entire Thread ]