Forever Home
I imagine most, if not all of our readership has heard the term “forever home” used when it comes to pets, whether a rescue or surrender. The number of cats and dogs alone that do not have a home is staggering. But what about exotic pets?
Unfortunately, the idea of having exotic pets can be a novelty. At first, they seem really cool to have, but some may not realize the time, special environment, diet, and ultimately, the cost involved to properly care for exotics.
Neenah, Wisconsin based J&R Aquatic Rescue (J&R) according to their website, is a compassionate organization dedicated to addressing the issue of unwanted exotic pets. Recognizing the potential harm of releasing such animals into the wild, the organization strives to provide responsible alternatives. Committed to the welfare of aquatic creatures, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue focuses on finding suitable homes for surrendered pets. Through their efforts, they aim to not only ensure the well-being of individual animals but also contribute to broader conservation initiatives by preventing the introduction of non-native species into natural ecosystems. With a mission rooted in education and responsible pet ownership, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue plays a vital role in fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and aquatic life.
Founded in February 2020 by Army Veteran John Moyles, who also serves as the organizations director, is a seasoned professional with 29 years of invaluable experience in the pet industry. “I started J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue as something to do in my spare time. I didn't realize, at the time, how much of a demand there was for our services. When I started this, I thought that it would be all people that were in over their heads or didn't know what they were doing, but it turns out the reason people surrender pets is that 'life changes’. Some of the animals that we work with live for decades. I can barely plan out what is going to happen in 20 days, much less 20 years. Kids grow up, people get sick, people change jobs. Having a plan for your pets is important and we are happy to be your plan B,” John said. He highlighted that since he started the organization, they have found homes for over 6,000 animals.
John pointed out the organization originally planned to do one Exotic Pet Surrender event every other month, but due to the success of the events, this year they have one every other week with more peppered into the schedule due to special events like Earth Week or Invasive Species Awareness Month.
J&R’s latest event was held at Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center, a University of Wisconsin Division of Extension in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, on Saturday, May 4th. While hosted by Upham Woods, J&R was joined by The Reptile Rescue of Wisconsin Inc. (Portage, WI.), and the Wisconsin Sugar Glider Sanctuary & Rescue (Janesville, WI.). The latter organizations, although focused on a particular species, no doubt play an important role in finding forever homes. While J&R’s name features the word “aquatic”, no exotic animal is turned away. In fact, J&R has a Rescue Network that helps ensure they can they can help people and pets alike. They do not accept cats, dogs, rabbits or chickens etc., and encourage those seeking to surrender those pets to contact their local Humane Society or animal shelter.
Melissa Gassner, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue's Surrender Event Specialist, was on hand for the event along with her son Greyson, also a volunteer, to take in surrendered exotics and field any questions attendees might have. Melissa said that their events are “no questions asked”. “So, people can bring in their animals that they can no longer keep and we will bring them back to our facility, put them on a quarantine for a week or more depending on their medical needs. Then we put them up for adoption. I just want people to know that we're not going to get mad at them for bringing their pets to us. We are here to help. We just want to offer pets a second chance.”
Involved with J&R for almost a year now, Melissa said she volunteers for multiple pet rescue type places. “I started out as a volunteer going into the facility-cleaning animals, and eventually started doing surrender events. I just love to help the animals. The animals that otherwise could have been released into the wild and would not have survived.” She noted that into addition to J&R holding direct surrender events, they attend expos and other events.
By the end of the event, over 20 animals found refuge, including an 18-inch-long Pacu, boa constrictors, and a 5-foot-long python. Melissa expressed gratitude for the community's support and emphasized the event's significance in promoting responsible pet ownership saying, "We're thrilled to see such a strong turnout for our Exotic Pet Surrender Event. It's heartening to witness the commitment of pet owners to ensure the well-being of their animals, even when circumstances make it difficult to provide adequate care." The event organizers stressed the importance of responsible rehoming practices, highlighting the detrimental impact of releasing pets into the wild on both animal welfare and the environment, and stressed that releasing pets harms both animals and the environment.
Dedicated to all animals, John said his journey has been marked by a passion for animals and a commitment to responsible pet care. As a naturalist, John has delved into the intricacies of the animal kingdom, bringing a unique perspective to his work. His expertise extends beyond the pet industry, as evidenced by his notable appearance in Fox2-O: A Water Quality Documentary, where he shared insights on environmental responsibility. Throughout his career, John has championed ethical pet ownership and environmental stewardship, becoming a respected figure in both the pet and conservation communities. With a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and animals, John continues to inspire others to make informed and compassionate choices in their interactions with the natural world.
The Exotic Pet Surrender Event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR), Reptile Rescue of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Sugar Glider Sanctuary and Rescue, the Upper Sugar River Watershed Association, Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center, and the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes. The event received generous support from sponsors including Ship Your Reptiles, Reef Aquaria Design, chemi-pure, Jellyfish Art, and Festival Foods.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue, Reptile Rescue of Wisconsin Inc., and the Wisconsin Sugar Glider Sanctuary & Rescue are non-profit organizations and rely on donations and grants. Volunteers play a major role in the dedication each of the organizations have in giving exotic pets the respect and quality life they too deserve as beings of Mother Earth.
For more information on the organizations click on their name: J&R Aquatic Rescue, The Reptile Rescue of Wisconsin Inc., Wisconsin Sugar Glider Sanctuary & Rescue.
For inquiries regarding surrendered pets or upcoming events, please contact John Moyles at adoptions@jraar.org.
