J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) hosted a highly successful Exotic Pet Surrender Event on June 29th from 12 PM to 3 PM at the Marinette County Resource Center, located at 1925 Ella Ct, Marinette, WI 54143. The event provided a safe and responsible option for pet owners to surrender exotic pets they could no longer care for, preventing harmful releases into the wild.
Area organizations accepted a variety of exotic pets, including fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants, with no questions asked. The event saw 35 animals surrendered, including snakes, lizards, corals, and a pair of sharks. These animals will be available for adoption after a brief quarantine and isolation period, ensuring they are healthy and ready for new homes.
Attendees had the opportunity to meet and learn about animal ambassadors and capture memorable moments at a photobooth with rescued pets. The event highlighted the importance of not releasing exotic pets into the wild, which can be detrimental to both the animals and the environment.
JRAAR, along with Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition, Marinette County Land Information Department, and University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes, organized the event. Generous sponsorship from Petco Love, Festival Foods, Chemipure, Reef Aquaria Design, Jellyfish Art, and Ship Your Reptiles made the event possible.
The next Exotic Pet Surrender Event is scheduled for July 13th from 12 PM to 3 PM at the Pringle Nature Center, 9800 County Hwy M B, Bristol, WI 53104. More details can be found here.
June is Invasive Species Action Month in Wisconsin, and these surrender events play a crucial role in curbing the introduction of invasive species through pet releases.
For more information or questions regarding the Exotic Pet Surrender Event, please contact John Moyles at [email protected].