Page 10 - Waves March 2019

P
E They Are
T
T

Corner Called Wild for

A Reason

by: Richard Henderson, D.V.M

such an animal.

Exotic parrots present a different problem for the pet owner. They
often outlive their owners leaving the bird without a committed hu-
man to care for them. Zoos receive numerous requests to take charge
of these types of birds, but unfortunately, most zoos do not have the
need or space to house them. The inn is full, and the parrot is out of
luck.

Pet owners who have lost interest in their charges have released large
have been fortunate to watch two Komodo dragons, Murphy and pythons and monitors into the Florida Everglades. These invasive rep-
Diablo, grow from tiny two-pound infant lizards to seven-foot- tiles have reproduced readily in large numbers consuming local wild-
I long (and still growing) young adults. Male Komodos can grow life species to satisfy their voracious appetites. Some native animals
to ten feet long and weigh up to 300 pounds. These guys arrived at will face extinction if this threat is not contained in the near future.
Moody Gardens in 2001 and have thrived in their state-of-the-art
exhibit cared for by a team of highly trained naturalists. Their diets, Certain small exotic animals can make excellent pets, bearded dragons,
weights, and environment are carefully monitored to ensure that they ball pythons, cockatiels and guinea pigs, for example. Those animals
stay in good health. that are typically gentle, adapt well to domesticity and have been bred
in captivity make the best choices. Before purchasing, one should
Komodo dragons are a protected species of monitor lizard that research the species thoroughly making sure the animal’s needs can
inhabit a few small islands in Indonesia. They are the largest living be met and that the pet owner is committed to the long-term care
species of lizard on earth and have many characteristics of dinosaurs. plan. If a person is not able to make that long-term commitment,
They can be unpredictable with a vicious and sometimes deadly bite they should walk away from the purchase. Every animal, no matter
if provoked. It is fortunate that they are illegal to own by individuals how small, deserves a good life and protection from harm. It is sad to
because there are more than a few unrealistic animal collectors who say many pets suffer a terrible fate due to human disinterest and poor
would gladly purchase one. Trying to raise one of these creatures care. These people have no business owning pets for which they will
would likely turn out badly for human and lizard alike. not care.

Like many towns, a city ordinance in Galveston prohibits individ- Society should take a close look at what animals individuals should
uals from owning a wide array of exotic animals; lions, tigers, wolves, or should not be permitted to own. We need strict laws in place to
alligators, large constricting snakes, and some monitor lizards are a prevent ownership of dangerous or difficult to care for exotic wildlife.
few examples. There are also restrictions on keeping livestock in the I wish there were more restrictions on ownership since so many of
city limits. The laws are in place to protect citizens from harm should nature’s creatures have no place living in captivity. The best place for
the animals get loose. The laws indirectly protect the animals, as it wild animals is out in nature in spaces where they are protected from
is nearly impossible for an individual to care for these species over human harm and free to live as wild animals should.
the long haul properly. In many rural areas of our state, there are no
laws restricting ownership of dangerous exotic animals. With a quick
internet search and a wad of cash, you can be the proud owner of a
cobra or tiger cub by the end of the week. In the hands of an inex-
perienced owner and improper handling of an animal, disaster is not
far away. There are many examples of exotic animals starting as cute
babies only to grow up and revert to their dangerous adult behaviors.
Richard D. Henderson, DVMd D. Henderson, DVMd D. Henderson, DVM
Richar
Animal control or police officers are often forced to kill animals that Richar
hurt humans. Even if these pets do not harm people, they are often Galveston Veterinary Clinic
abandoned or taken to animal sanctuaries, as their owners can no 2108 61st Street
longer control them. The purchase of many exotic animals is often Galveston, TX 77551
impulsive without thinking about the long-term care and expense of 409.356.9000

10 | Waves Magazine | March 2019 Issue