Posted by:
LodiGIS
at Sat Feb 21 12:38:28 2004 [ Report Abuse ] [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by LodiGIS ]
Although I hate to see any Iguana's being sold in stores, and agree with you in your quest to remove these vendors from selling these beautiful lizards; do so in an informed, educated manner.
The worst thing any well-intentioned herper can do is appear as if they are a part of an animal rights group or on an "anti-pet" crusade.
First and foremost, approach the vendors, and explain to them their mistakes in how the animals are being housed and cared for. If you do not get results by speaking to the owner(s) selling the animals, THEN go to whoever is in charge of the booth/space rentals in the mall.
Remember, the key is to approach whomever it is with a well informed and though out "game plan". Be sure you have all the facts, including doing some research on Iguana's that you can then use as a means to educate/inform whomever it is you are trying to convince why these vendors should not be selling these animals.
Also, you will have to be sure that this is how the animals are kept long-term; and not just while on display/sale.
Ever go to a reptile/herp show? Many who are new to these events may consider the deli cups that many vendors display their animals in as cruel and cramped, etc....BUT, this is only how these breeders display the animals for shows/events and is NOT indicative of their long-term housing.
See what I'm getting at? Be sure you have ALL the facts before acting in heated passion, so to say.
If you approach it on a "personal level", without good solid information, your efforts are more likely to result in being looked upon as a "kook" by whomever you take your complaint(s) to.
I have personally convinced a few pet stores in my area to stop selling Iggy's...it wasn't always easy; and a LOT of effort was involved to speak to the "right" people. But in all those cases, it was with good, strong information and facts that helped to persuade these shops from selling these animals.
Remember that they are not illegal to sell in pet shops, and although I would personally like to see less of them in petshop display cages, one has to tread a fine-line between concern and outright banning.
Now, if conditions are deplorable beyond any doubt, you can also file a complaint with the Animal Control in your city/state and allow them to investigate.
Good Luck!
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