AR-News: (USA) Urge New York Legislators to Pass Exotic Pet Ban

[molly]

> Your help is needed to ensure passage of legislation that will prevent the
inhumane treatment of wild animals while eliminating a growing public health
threat.  A.2684-B/S.905-B (Tonko/Marcellino) will put an end to the
dangerous and inhumane practice of keeping wild animals as pets in New York
State. Although inherently dangerous and unsuited to live as family pets,
many "exotic" animals are increasingly available for sale in New York.
Monkeys, snakes, and other wild animals, pose serious risks to their owners
as well as to the public at large. Monkeys can carry Herpes B, Monkey Pox
and Ebola Virus and other diseases readily transmittable and potentially
fatal to humans. The recent outbreaks of Monkey Pox in New Jersey and New
York have been traced to the import of exotic animals and highlight the need
for this legislation.
>
> A.2684-b/S.905-B would ban keeping exotic animals as pets in New York
State. It would not effect lawful possession of these animals by zoos,
research facilities, humane societies, veterinarians and wildlife
rehabiltators. Nor would it affect lawful farming activities. Those who own
exotic animals at the time the law takes effect would be permitted to keep
them provided that they can meet stringent animal care and public safety
regulations.
>
> Please urge your representatives, the sponsors of the bill, and the
leadership in both houses to support this legislation and put an end to this
cruel and foolhardy practice. The only "winners" are those who enjoy
tremendous profits from this lucrative, yet inhumane endeavor. To send a
letter to your representatives, the sponsors and the leadership of both
houses, please click here.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Stacy Wolf, Esq.
> Director, Legislative Services
> National Shelter Outreach