Animals to be rehomed following exotic pet surrender event in Rhinelander

Twenty-three animals were turned in at an exotic pet surrender event in Rhinelander on Sunday, October 15.

Included in the surrenders were fish, lizards, snakes and birds, organizers said in a press.

The exotic pet surrender event was held at the Oneida County Humane Society, located at 1852 North Stevens Street, Rhinelander. 

Area organizations were on hand accepting fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants — no questions asked.

“In some areas, there are no rehoming options for exotic animals such as fish, birds, and reptiles,” the release states. “Some pet owners that are unable to care for their pet may think that releasing the animal is the right thing to do, however, releasing a pet is harmful for the animal and the environment. This event brought together a collection of area rehoming partners that provide responsible alternatives to release for exotic pet owners who are no longer able to care for their pets. J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) hosted the event with help from several other area organizations including staff from Oneida County Land and Water Conservation, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue, and University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes.”

All animals will be available to adopt through J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue after a brief quarantine and evaluation period, according to the release.

This program is possible due to their sponsors, Animart and Festival Foods.

Questions regarding the exotic pet surrender event or about future surrenders or events can be directed to John Moyles of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. 

He can be reached at [email protected].