Boa and Python Laws

**Pareeeee** · 08-22-14, 08:11 AM

So, someone I know owns a BP despite a new and foolish blanket ban on all boa and python species in their area. I figured I'd ask a few questions here on their behalf.

They purchased the BP before the law came into effect, and now they are 'stuck' between a rock and a hard place. Apparently most of their friends and some of their neighbors know they own the snake (there were no concerns before because the snake was perfectly legal at the time, therefore there was no harm in people knowing about it...until now).

What is your opinion on what this person should do? I mean, it's even illegal now for them to try to sell it or give it away. I don't think they want to give up their pet, either. It's just a very unfortunate situation. :/

Sorry, but I will not be giving away the name or location of this individual because of, well, obvious reasons.

It makes me worry, because what would I do if the law were to be changed here? The possibilities are very real. I have a BP and Rosy Boa which would both fall under a ban such as this, and am not willing to give them up. Neighbors and landlords also know about my snakes. It really makes me angry when laws like this are made, because we take on the responsibility to care for a pet that will rely on us for 30+ years, and then suddenly the privilege to own that pet is taken away.

**Aaron_S** · 08-22-14, 08:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pareeeee

So, someone I know owns a BP despite a new and foolish blanket ban on all boa and python species in their area. I figured I'd ask a few questions here on their behalf.

They purchased the BP before the law came into effect, and now they are 'stuck' between a rock and a hard place. Apparently most of their friends and some of their neighbors know they own the snake (there were no concerns before because the snake was perfectly legal at the time, therefore there was no harm in people knowing about it...until now).

What is your opinion on what this person should do? I mean, it's even illegal now for them to try to sell it or give it away. I don't think they want to give up their pet, either. It's just a very unfortunate situation. :/

Sorry, but I will not be giving away the name or location of this individual because of, well, obvious reasons.

It makes me worry, because what would I do if the law were to be changed here? The possibilities are very real. I have a BP and Rosy Boa which would both fall under a ban such as this, and am not willing to give them up. Neighbors and landlords also know about my snakes. It really makes me angry when laws like this are made, because we take on the responsibility to care for a pet that will rely on us for 30+ years, and then suddenly the privilege to own that pet is taken away.

First of all, you should really let us know the town this is in. So all other Canadian keepers can be aware. That's part of the battle. Most don't know about it and probably didn't know it was being discussed with council!

Your friend should/can contact CanHerp. Our Canadian USARK. I doubt they can do much about it now that the ban is in place but good for them to know about the region (if they don't know already).

Lastly, your friend should actually remove it from where the ban is in place. I understand that's a difficult thing to do with a pet. Very much so. As a group we need to show HOW responsible we are when we take these bylaws seriously ourselves. If we don't then why should they allow us to keep them legally? We look like fools and children.

Once the snake has been removed and your friend is actually concerned about this bylaw. They can begin fighting the law by being involved. Finding out when a council meeting is taking place that allows their residents to bring up issues like this one. For you Paris, if you're actually concerned about your animals then you should be doing this too. CanHerp may help. Reach out and see what they do in these situations.

Bylaws DO change. Cambridge did so (came in effect January 1st) as well as Durham region about a year prior. People just need to work at it and sadly most keepers just won't do that. Far easier to simply complain about the bylaws and continue to break them. Hoping that it will magically be reversed for them.

**Pareeeee** · 08-22-14, 09:06 AM

Thank you for your advice, it was very helpful. Gonna check out CanHerp and see what they can do.

I will try to remember to post the municipality once they find a new home for their snake. I don't want to endanger them at the moment.

**Tsubaki** · 08-22-14, 09:45 AM

It is also in effect for already purchased/owned animals? If a law about animals changes around here, you are usually allowed to keep the ones you have until its 'their time'.

**Pareeeee** · 08-22-14, 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tsubaki

It is also in effect for already purchased/owned animals? If a law about animals changes around here, you are usually allowed to keep the ones you have until its 'their time'.

I don't think the 'grandfather clause' includes reptiles. There is no proof of purchase or receipt anyway.

wrecker45 · 08-23-14, 06:59 AM

I would take a ball phython to a counsel meeting. Show them how small and harmless they are. Tell them they can not survive in the wild in Canada.

**Aaron_S** · 08-25-14, 10:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pareeeee

Thank you for your advice, it was very helpful. Gonna check out CanHerp and see what they can do.

I will try to remember to post the municipality once they find a new home for their snake. I don't want to endanger them at the moment.

You're currently endangering everyone who may be reading and live in that community but didn't know what's going on.

I understand you're looking out for a friend but you're affecting other keepers at the same time.

By-laws are only enforced if there's a complaint so no one can just show up on a doorstep to seize or do anything without one. Just don't name your friend.