First, I don't really know where this thread belongs and I know no one will agree. But, I have to say that things have got to the point that we all may be shooting ourselfs in the foot with some of the "badguy" reports. Please understand that the intent of this thread is not to slam the BOI or its intended purpose. But, sometimes dirty laundry is better washed at home, than taken to the laundry mat. Please allow me to explain: I often see "badguy" reports about a pet store chain called "Petco". I believe thats their name. In any case the name does not matter. You go into this store and see a lot of sick and half dead animals. Being the herp/animal lover that you are, you immediately go to the BOI to report this, plus you call all the State and Federal wildlife departments that will listen to you. Great! You cared enough to take action and get involved. But, what about long term. I know that most of the "PETA" type groups and most State Fish & Wildlife Departments do look at the BOI, Kingsnake, and other sites. I recently met a former PETA member who really made some eye opening comments to me. His comment was that their view was that there are no GOOD pet stores, animal/herp dealers or zoos. In their eyes we are simply wildlife pimps. Plus, he said they have been able to convince some Federal and State wildlife officials to have the same mindset. What made me start this thread is the issue with Bruce at Carolina Reptile Exchange. No doubt Bruce is bad. But, my issue is this. The groups out there that are out to "get us all" and to kill the industry, we are giving them all the ammo they need. South Carolina is one of the few "herp friendly" states left and I'm afraid that all of the attention to "one" badguy in SC could shut the industry down in SC. In my opinion, SC has one of the best Wildlife Departments in the US, but remember wildlife departments do not make or pass laws. I also feel that all of the reporting of the "online" herp fraud could come back to bite us all. I recently read that due to all of the reports of fraud from online pharmacies that the Government may attempt to shut down online prescription sales. The same could happen to us. Just imagine a law being passed that would make it illegal for any online sales of "live animals". Heck, I bet most of you on here are to young to remember the "good old" days when you actually had to stuff your price list in an envelope, lick a stamp, and mail it.
In closing, I'm not trying to say that if you are scammed, you should just chalk if up for experience. And of course "your heart" is in the right place when you do see abused animals by attempting to get "involved". I'm just saying we should always think "long term" as to how our own actions "today", could affect us all later. It may turn out that we are our own worst enemy. When it comes to wildlife laws, local and state Governments usually "over-respond".
Always remember the brain is like a parachute, it functions properly only when fully open.
Thank you.
David Rivers
In closing, I'm not trying to say that if you are scammed, you should just chalk if up for experience. And of course "your heart" is in the right place when you do see abused animals by attempting to get "involved". I'm just saying we should always think "long term" as to how our own actions "today", could affect us all later. It may turn out that we are our own worst enemy. When it comes to wildlife laws, local and state Governments usually "over-respond".
Always remember the brain is like a parachute, it functions properly only when fully open.
Thank you.
David Rivers
I have to hit a fast food joint and get a cruelly butchered Quarter Pounder or Wendy's Double.
