04/29/2026
I wanted to share with you an important, upcoming event that will provide a safe, dignified, and judgement-free opportunity for pet owners to surrender exotic pets they can no longer care for, as an alternative to releasing them into nearby waters, woodlands and communities.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is proud to host an Exotic Pet Surrender Event on Saturday, May 2nd from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Rhinelander District Library located at 106 N. Stevens St., Rhinelander. They will be on-site to accept fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants - no questions asked. Please see important information below. In addition to surrender services, attendees will have the opportunity to meet animal ambassadors and learn about responsible pet ownership. Stephanie Boismenue, AIS Coordinator & Conservation Technician with Oneida County Land & Water Conservation Department, will be on hand to talk about invasive species.
In many regions, rehoming options for exotic pets such as fish, birds, and reptiles are limited. Unfortunately, some pet owners, feeling they have no alternative, may consider releasing their animals into the wild. However, most pets cannot survive in the wild and if they can, the animal has the potential to establish itself in local habitats and become invasive, preying on local wildlife, spreading disease, and disrupting ecosystems. Their release can result in serious environmental, economic, social and ecological impacts for the community. This event offers a responsible and ethical solution.
Each year, there are numerous cases of exotic pets found in Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers and are causing problems. In recent years, several Alligators have been found swimming in Wisconsin waterbodies and even roaming around on land. Ugh! I don’t know about you, but the thought of an alligator sharing my favorite swimming hole makes the hair on my arms stand up!!! Some of these exotic pets may have been abandoned and others may have escaped enclosures. Fortunately, Pet Surrender events are now being held across Wisconsin help provide an avenue for pet owners to rehome pets without harming the pet or the environment.
There are many reasons and situations for rehoming exotic pets.
· Are you moving away and cannot take your saltwater aquarium with you?
· Do you know someone who has passed away and left behind their beloved senior parrot, macaw or cockatoo?
· Do you have a turtle or snake that has outgrown its tank?
· Have you been unsuccessful at rehoming the ornamental fish in your pond?
· Are your kids no longer interested in the chinchilla they received at Christmas?
· Would you like to get rid of the nuisance snails or plants that have taken over your aquarium?
· Do you need to rehome a classroom pet?
· Are you struggling to care for a sick turtle?
Whatever the reason it - it is okay - no questioned asked.
Important Information:
Adoption Availability: Surrendered animals will be placed for adoption following a mandatory quarantine and observation period. Same-day adoptions will not be available.
Accepted Species: We welcome exotic pets, including fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants.
Non-Accepted Animals: Domestic pets and farm animals—including but not limited to dogs, cats, rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, horses, pigs, and chickens—will not be accepted. Please contact your local Humane Society for rehoming assistance for these species.
Native Wildlife: We cannot accept Wisconsin native animals taken from the wild. For assistance with wildlife, please refer to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website to locate a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Out-of-State Animals: Birds, reptiles, and mammals originating from outside Wisconsin must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate).
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is hosting this event in partnership with Rhinelander District Library, University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes, and Oneida County Land & Water Conservation. This event has been generously sponsored by Chemipure. For more information, please contact Macy Wolke-Yohr at [email protected].
Please share this information and attached flyer with your family, friends and anyone you know who is struggling to care for their exotic pet.
Thank you,
Stephanie Boismenue
Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator & Conservation Technician
Oneida County Land & Water Conservation Department
Phone: 715-369-7835
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.oclw.org
Address: Courthouse, PO Box 400/ 1 S. Oneida Ave, Rhinelander, WI 54501
