Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello everyone. A pet store near my home has got me feeling like I need to say something to some sort of authorities about the conditions in which they keep their animals. Saying something to the owner doesn't work, and I don't want to have a protest or anything, but I would like to be able to inform some government department about this. I have always liked this pet store, I even bought my boa there, but in the last few months, the animals have been really starting to suffer. I will spare you all the details, it only makes us all angry. Anyway, what would be the most effective route to choose in getting something done about this?
-----
-Bill

1.0.0 Albino California Kingsnake
0.1.0 Colombian Red Tail Boa
0.0.1 Axolotl Salamander
0.0.1 Red Flame Crested Gecko
0.0.1 Argentine Black and White Tegu

BoidsNTegus@insightbb.com

As for the matter at hand it's been my experience that the majority of pet stores out there stink especially with regards to the proper care of reptiles. Inhumane treatement of any animal warrants the proper justice, but all species are unfortunately not created equal. Let me explain- The ASPCA and PETA are two organizations that are very proactive with regards to animal welfare. However, they are not (and you may not find this in their bi-lines) reptile friendly. Trust me on this. It's been my experience that the best people to intercede on behalf of herps are herpers. Most vets aren't experienced and most animal welfare agencies will not know how to care for them. I.e. throwing a bright heat lamp nonstop on a nocturnal species for example or feeding crickets to an iguana (I've seen both). I would reccommed that you contact a reptile rescue in your area if its just reptiles at issue. They would possibly know how to handle this if they deal with seized animals. If it's the whole shop then I'd definitely blow the whistle, check with the dept of agriculture or as a last resort an animal cruelty organization. At the very least they could get some press at the shop and motivate the owner that way. I hope this helps.

(btw) thanks for your post about my tegu's appetite.

I'll send you something off-line to help with this, but I just wanted to point out that who you contact depends on where you live. Very few humane societies or other humane organizations have legal powers to inspect or fine for neglect or cruelty. Usually one has to call the municipal animal control or health department or state department of agriculture.

Katrina

Thank you both for the good info. Katrina, that email was very informative. I plan on getting this done today. I'll let everyone know the good or bad news.
-----
-Bill

1.0.0 Albino California Kingsnake
0.1.0 Colombian Red Tail Boa
0.0.1 Axolotl Salamander
0.0.1 Red Flame Crested Gecko
0.0.1 Argentine Black and White Tegu

BoidsNTegus@insightbb.com