I have attached the CVMA position on keeping exotic pets. The lead author of this position is on our animal welfare committee and is a zoo veterinarian at a well-respected zoo in Canada.
Many welfare advocates familiar with zoos/aquariums feel that roadside zoos can be a risk to welfare. The idea of mandating that these zoos meet accreditation standards set out by Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) is something that many advocates feel would address many of the concerns that surround such zoos. Having roadside zoos (CAZA accredited or not) or even legitimate zoos become sanctuaries for unwanted, unacceptable or relinquished exotic pets can be problematic also. Typically legitimate zoos will not accept such animals because of responsible collection planning requirements/legislation. Animal ‘sanctuaries’ often have very limited space or resources to accept such animals and care for them in a way that meets their physical and mental needs.
keeping_of_native_or_exotic_wild_animals_as_pets_-_revised_july_2011_1.doc |