Wisconsin: Ban Private Ownership of Exotic and Dangerous Animals
- by: Alicia Graef
- recipient: Wisconsin Legislature
Wisconsin is currently one of only a handful of states that has few laws regarding keeping exotic and dangerous animals as pets, but lawmakers are taking action to remedy that.
Keeping wild, exotic and dangerous animals poses a threat to public health and safety and to the welfare of these animals who are often kept in inhumane conditions. Even with the best of intentions, most people aren't equipped to meet the physical and psychological needs of many species who continue to be kept as pets.
AB 703 will classify a number of species, including non-native big cats, bears and primates, and ban their sale, breeding and possession with exemptions for veterinarians and facilities with trained wildlife professionals, including accredited zoos and sanctuaries.
It will also prohibit the public from coming into direct contact with dangerous exotic animals and require owners to notify the authorities if there is an escape. Anyone who currently owns an exotic animal will be grandfathered in and required to register them in their municipality.
This bill has already received widespread support from animal welfare organizations, in addition to the Milwaukee Police Association, Wisconsin Counties Association and Wisconsin Professional Police Association.
Please sign the petition urging lawmakers in Wisconsin to pass legislation that will keep both people and animals safe.
As someone who is concerned with animal welfare and public safety I was pleased to learn that Wisconsin is considering legislation that will crack down on ownership of exotic and dangerous animals.
Keeping wild, exotic and dangerous animals poses a threat to public health and safety and to the welfare of these animals who are often kept in inhumane conditions. Even with the best of intentions, most people aren't equipped to meet the physical and psychological needs of many species who continue to be kept as pets.
AB 703 will classify a number of species, including non-native big cats, bears and primates, and ban their sale, breeding and possession with exemptions for veterinarians and facilities with trained wildlife professionals, including accredited zoos and sanctuaries.
It will also prohibit the public from coming into direct contact with dangerous exotic animals and require owners to notify the authorities if there is an escape. The bill has already received widespread support from animal welfare organizations, in addition to the Milwaukee Police Association, Wisconsin Counties Association and Wisconsin Professional Police Association.
Wisconsin is currently one of a handful of states that has few laws regarding keeping dangerous wild animals as pets. I sincerely hope that you will pass legislation that will protect both animals and residents in your state.
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