To the Mayor and Council of Surrey,

Surrey council has obviously considered the danger snakes and venomous animals can present and that they and other reptiles can transmit a variety of parasites, bacteria and disease to humans and other animals. In addition, with Surrey’s Rainforest Reptile Refuge full of unwanted reptiles, it’s clear that the purchasers of these animals quickly tire of their unusual pet. It’s also clear they can’t look after them since most arrive suffering or even dead at the refuge. Including snakes, venomous animals and reptiles in the bylaw is good for the people of Surrey and for the animals themselves.

The recent story in the Leader about the primates at the SPCA has been an ongoing one. These animals can be dangerous to people as they are not domesticated and their behaviours are little known or understood by most people. Surrey council has wisely included primates in the bylaw.

I see other animals prohibited as well and that is all for the best. There is one item I urge you to add. While the present bylaw states that one can’t sell, transfer exchange, purchase, buy or take in exchange prohibited animals, including those listed above, it doesn’t prevent people from buying them elsewhere and keeping them here in Surrey.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Janice Kenefick
surrey, BC