Exotic pet surrender event scheduled next month in De Soto

Pet owners who can no longer care for their exotic animals will have an option to rehome them at a free surrender event next month in De Soto. J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue will host the event on Saturday, January 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the De Soto Public Library at 111 Houghton Street. The organization promises a judgment-free environment for people facing difficult decisions about their pets. The event addresses a growing problem where owners have few options for rehoming exotic animals. Without proper alternatives, some people release their pets into the wild, which can harm both the animals and local ecosystems. Local organizations will accept fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and non-native plants. Domestic pets like dogs, cats, and rabbits will not be accepted. Owners of these animals should contact their local Humane Society instead.