Description

The Nonnative Pet Amnesty Program is an effort to reduce the number of nonnative species released into the wild by pet owners who can no longer care for their pets or no longer wish to keep them http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/amnesty-day-events/. Managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, a SART partner, Amnesty Day events give people a chance to give up nonnative pets. They are free and there are no penalties. Every attempt is made to place healthy animals with qualified adopters.

Nonnative reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish, mammals and invertebrates are accepted at Amnesty Day. Domestic pets, such as dogs, cats or ferrets, are not accepted. A goal of the program is to foster responsible pet ownership.

At an Amnesty Day, exotic pet owners and anyone interested in acquiring a nonnative pet can talk to experts to learn about that animal's needs. Events are free and open to the public. Low cost micro-chipping is often available.

Pet adopters are recruited before each Amnesty Day to give homes to surrendered exotic animals. Adopters must submit an application to be reviewed by FWC. Becoming a nonnative pet adopter. Approved applicants receive a letter of acceptance which must be brought to Amnesty Day events.

These events help increase awareness of nonnative species problems. Over 400 nonnative species have been observed in Florida, and more than 130 have reproducing populations. It is illegal to release any animal not native to Florida.

Date and Time

4/21/2012, 10:00AM - 2:00PM

Location

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center
1601 East Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Plant City, FL 33563

Sponsoring Organization

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

Event Type

other

Target Audience

Exotic pet owners and adopters

Web Site
http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/amnesty-day-events/