Guest Author - Denise Lacazette

Is it in your best interest as an exotic pet owner to become involved in a conservation group, club, or association? Every organization has a “mission”. Many times the mission of the organization is in your best interest. Obviously there are some organizations that do not support exotic pet ownership (or any pet ownership). Others serve a useful purpose related to exotic animals, but not directly benefit you as an owner.

Conservation groups are primarily focused on preserving animals in the wild. This is not directly opposed to exotic pet ownership, but the organization may take an anti-pet stance. Some conservation groups have taken a more proactive approach in compromising with the public. A great example of this is Project Golden Frog. This frog is endangered in its natural habitat. The program is focused on conservation in the wild, future releases into the wild – but also release of some captive bred for display.

A great way to network with other owners and breeders is through Clubs and Associations. Information will vary organization to organization as will the mission. Research into each is important to ensure you agree with the stated positions and goals of the group. The International Conure Association, for example, provides newsletters that cover different species of conures, gives updates about conures in the wild, pet health information, and offers networking opportunities through their online group. The ICA also supports various conservation efforts in the wild such as the Yellow-eared Conure Project. This is a great example of the type of association an owner may want to join. Other associations are legal “watchdogs” that inform members of impending legislative actions (locally and/or nationally) that can affect owners. These associations are typically lobbyists for the pet trade (manufacturers, retailers, etc) that directly benefit owners.

What to look for in an organization:

- Do they support exotic pet ownership?
- Do they provide recommendation on responsible ownership?
- Do they offer networking opportunities?
- Do they provide information on pending laws affecting your pet?
- Do they support efforts in the wild?
- Do you agree with their stated mission?

Associations, clubs, and conservation groups can be a valuable tool for the exotic pet owner. Read the fine print and make sure your interests and theirs are compatible before signing up. Realize that there are many different styles of leadership and membership – even if a group seems a good fit there are many different attitudes and ways of keeping animals that may not always jive with your own. Even if you do things differently, you may still learn something new that enhances the way you take care of your pet. And finally, please consider choosing at least one conservation group with a compatible mission to ensure relatives of our pets have a home to thrive in also.