Ban would keep wild amimals in the wild

By MISTY MAYNARD Staff Writer

Friday, July 8, 2005 8:05 PM EDT Print this story | Email this story

Beginning Tuesday, Kentucky residents will no longer be able to
acquire exotic animals, including lions, snakes, or tigers, as pets.
However, those who already possess such animals will be able to
retain them as long as they meet specified conditions.

The ban established by the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
outlines in detail animals which are prohibited, as well as exempt
animals. The ban does not affect zoos, circuses, government agencies
or licensed and accredited educational institutions.

"There are some major problems out there and Fish and Wildlife is
acting to protect the public," Rep. Mike Denham said.

Specifically, the ban prohibits exotic animals which could
potentially damage native ecosystems, or could pose a risk to human
safety and health either through violence or disease.

"People like (exotic animals) because they're so cute (when they're
young), but they forget they're going to grow up," said David Casey,
a spokesperson for the Department of Fish and Wildlife. "Wild animals
just don't make good pets."

Denham cited an incidence in Morehead as a reason for the ban. In the
instance, a monkey bit a drive-through worker at the Viking BP Mart.
When the worker handed out a beverage to the individual in the
vehicle, the monkey attempted to grab the drink. The owner of the
monkey paid the worker's hospital bill, and the animal was to be
relocated to the Nicholasville primate center -- a decision made
before the biting incident.

Individuals who own exotic animals will be allowed to keep them,
though if at some point they die or must be transferred to another
location, the animal cannot be replaced. If the animal is taken
outside of the state, Casey said it cannot be brought back in.

The owner must provide proof the animal was obtained prior to the
ban, as well as keep veterinary records. The animals cannot be bred,
and if the animal escapes or is released, the person must immediately
called the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

Though the ban goes into effect Tuesday, the Interim Joint Committee
on Agriculture and Natural Resources will hear the testimony
concerning the proposal Wednesday. Because of the nature of the
proposal, Denham said that the committee will not alter the ban but
could decide to take further action later when regular session
commences.

Contact Misty Maynard at misty.maynard@lee.net or call 564-9091, ext.
274.