Oftentimes when delivering testimony, PIJAC staff point out that those of us in the pet field don’t just care ABOUT animals, we care FOR animals. That firsthand knowledge makes our members some of the best sources available for information on best practices and standard operating procedures as well as the likely impact of proposed legislation and regulations on our trade.
This new partnership will also help protect consumer choice and be more proactive in promoting the industry and its positive programs, while advocating for the health and well-being of companion animals.
Scott Hardin—a biologist, expert on exotic and invasive species and proud owner of a ball python named Ricky (as in Lucy’s husband)—has the kind of insight that comes only with years of experience working at the intersection of science, environmental stewardship and public policy, balancing conservation of fish and wildlife with responsible pet ownership.
As an organization, one of PIJAC’s main tenets is to promote responsible pet ownership, including snakes. We therefore denounce the Discovery channel’s mistreatment of animals for the purpose of ratings as irresponsible, exploitative and insulting to those who raise and care for constrictors.
In getting up to speed on all of the issues around responsible reptile ownership, I am lucky to have as my teachers leading reptile specialists right here in the PIJAC family. When it comes to reptiles, one such authority is John Mack, founder and CEO of Reptiles by Mack and one of the world’s leading experts on breeding and keeping reptiles.
We already know that pets benefit human health and enhance our quality of life at all stages. People living with pets report less stress and a greater sense of wellbeing. Research has shown that having pets in society results in an overall decrease in health care costs....
Having an animal companion has been shown to help to reduce stress and blood pressure, increase a child’s sense of responsibility, teach compassion and promote an interest in conservation. And we are not just talking dogs and cats here.
I would like to personally share my stance on reptile ownership and ensure both owners of reptiles and the organizations that support them that as President and CEO of PIJAC I will work to protect reptiles as fiercely as any other pet type.