Policy on Wild and Exotic Animals as Pets

We condemn the neglect and abuse of any animal, wild or domestic, and our mission is to promote animal welfare through education and direct rescue efforts. We recognize that, like domestic animals, wild and exotic animals are sometimes neglected, abused, or irresponsibly owned, and Amnesty's mission is to try to prevent and relieve such suffering.

However, we also wish to recognize that such problems are not unique to wild and exotic animals; domestic animals and even human beings are subject to cruelty and abuse. We do not find that laws prohibiting the ownership of exotic pets reduce these problems.

We have seen animal neglect and abuse occur in sanctuaries, zoos, breeding facilities, pet homes, and government facilities. What matters is not the theoretical title of an animal's caretakers, but the standard of care that they provide. We condemn mistreatment of animals by anyone, and we applaud any group or individual committed to caring and responsible animal husbandry.

Amnesty recognizes that many animals are losing their homes due to the banning of exotic pets in some areas. Being removed from a secure home and being thrust into an unknown environment is very stressful to these animals, and Amnesty attempts to place former pets in facilities where they can enjoy a similar environment to that which they are accustomed.