FORT WALTON BEACH — Area residents who can no longer care for their exotic pets are invited to surrender them to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for adoption in October.
Reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates may be turned in free of penalty or fine. Domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, will not be accepted.
The turn-in period for Exotic Pet Amnesty Day is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 3, in front of Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach.
Animals will be available for adoption after 2 p.m. Exotic pet adopters must registered by Sept. 28 to participate. They must be experienced and must have already applied and been approved by the FWC prior to the event. Potential adopters need to bring their acceptance letters with them. Adopter applications available at MyFWC.com/Nonnatives. Becoming an adopter is free, but people are required to register a minimum of five days prior to the event to adopt an animal. FWC’s Exotic Species Hotline: 888-483-4681. Exotic pet owners who cannot attend this event may call this number for assistance in finding a new home for their animal.
Park admission is not included, but for each animal surrendered, individuals will receive two free admission passes to the Gulfarium. For more information about Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, call 243-9046.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Florida Fish and Wildlife commission, Gulfarium host pet amnesty in Fort Walton Beach