Do you have an exotic pet that you are no longer able to care for? Instead of releasing it into the wild, bring it to J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue’s Exotic Pet Surrender Event on June 22nd. The event will take place from 12 PM to 3 PM at the Marinette County Resource Center, located at 1925 Ella Ct, Marinette, WI 54143.
Area organizations will be accepting a variety of exotic pets, including fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants—no questions asked. However, domestic pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, and chickens will not be accepted. Owners of domestic animals should contact local pet shelters or rescues for rehoming options.
The event will feature animal ambassadors, providing attendees an opportunity to meet and learn about rescued animals. Additionally, there will be a photobooth for visitors to capture moments with some of the exotic pets.
“In some areas, there are no rehoming options for exotic animals such as fish, birds, and reptiles,” said Renee Schulz, Surrender Event Specialist at J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. “Some pet owners may think that releasing their pet is the right thing to do, but this is harmful to both the animal and the environment. Our event offers a safe and responsible alternative.”
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) is organizing this event in collaboration with several area organizations, including the Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition, Marinette County Land Information Department, and University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes. Surrendered animals will be available for adoption after a brief quarantine and isolation period, though there will be no same-day adoptions.
This program is made possible by the generous support of sponsors such as Petco Love, Festival Foods, Chemipure, Reef Aquaria Design, Jellyfish Art, and Ship Your Reptiles.
For more information about the Exotic Pet Surrender Event, please contact John Moyles at [email protected].
