This is information that a state official gathered and thought I would share it with you all
"10 states ban the possession of reptiles, 5 states have a partial ban, 11 states require a permit and 26 states allow the possession or have no laws. I would guess that as the word gets out, most of the 26 states will follow suit. As you and I spoke when you were here, I prefer a licensing procedure rather than a ban."
And this is the new regulations that went into effect, curious to see what you all think.
Board Order Adopted by the North Dakota Board of Animal Health
December 8, 2004
Venomous reptiles – persons or facilities wanting to keep venomous reptiles are required to meet the following conditions:
1. Describe and demonstrate to the Non-Traditional Livestock Council (NTL) the ability of handlers to maintain and control the animals safely. Relate details to the NTL of the experience of handlers with venomous species.
2. Provide details to the NTL including photographs of housing, feeding and handling techniques.
3. Maintain quality caging that is individually locked, with all cages containing venomous reptiles housed in a locked room.
4. Identify each individual animal with a method which readily distinguishes one animal from another, such as microchips. Photographs may be used for species that show a variance in color patterns.
5. Provide details to the NTL of a safety plan which takes into account how a potential emergency, including a bite, will be dealt with so as to avoid loss of life or serious injury. Inform local EMS, fire department and law enforcement of the presence of venomous reptiles in case of an emergency situation.
6. Contact a local hospital and show proof that they have been made aware of the venomous animals that will be in your care and that you have provided them with appropriate information that alerts them as to their role should a bite occur. Provide proof that appropriate antivenins and other emergency drugs are readily available should they be needed. Annually, provide proof that these drugs are being kept properly and up-to-date.
7. Provide a list of species being considered for accession and inform the office of the State Veterinarian and the local hospital mentioned in #6 of any new species that are acquired.
8. Importation- all venomous reptiles require a valid health certificate and an importation permit to enter North Dakota. The North Dakota State Veterinarian’s office must be called for a permit number that is to be written on the health certificate.
9. Penalties- due to the potentially dangerous situation that is created with the presence of venomous reptiles, any violation of any of these conditions may result in disciplinary action including, but not limited to:
a. confiscation and/or destroying all venomous reptiles in the collection
b. a fine of up to $5000.00 for each violation
TaPhillip
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It's what you learn AFTER you know it all that counts!
Terry Phillip
Curator of Reptiles
Black Hills Reptile Gardens
Rapid City, SD.
www.reptilegardens.com
