Exotic Pet Surrender Event - Madison

Struggling to Care for Your Exotic Pet? We Can Help
June is Invasive Species Awareness Month, a time dedicated to protecting Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers, forests, and wildlife from harmful non-native species. Releasing unwanted pets into the wild can cause serious environmental damage — which is why J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is proud to host an Exotic Pet Surrender Event on June 20th from Noon to 3 PM at the Dane County Land & Water Resources Department, located at 4318 Robertson Rd, Madison, WI 53714.
In many regions, rehoming options for exotic pets such as fish, birds, and reptiles are limited. Unfortunately, some pet owners, feeling they have no alternative, may consider releasing their animals outdoors. However, doing so poses serious risks to both the animal and the environment. During Invasive Species Awareness Month, we are reminding the public that surrendering is always the responsible choice.
This event offers a safe, judgment-free opportunity for individuals to surrender exotic pets they can no longer care for.
Local organizations will be on-site to accept fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants — no questions asked. In addition to surrender services, attendees will have the opportunity to meet animal ambassadors and learn about responsible pet ownership and invasive species prevention.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) is hosting this event with support from Dane County Land & Water Resources Department, Upper Sugar River Watershed Association, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes.
This event has been generously supported by the Wisconsin DNR.
Important Information:
Adoption Availability: Surrendered animals will be placed for adoption following a mandatory quarantine and observation period. Same-day adoptions will not be available.
Accepted Species: We welcome exotic pets, including fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants.
Non-Accepted Animals: Domestic pets and farm animals—including but not limited to dogs, cats, rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, horses, pigs, and chickens—will not be accepted. Please contact your local Humane Society for assistance.
Native Wildlife: We cannot accept Wisconsin native animals taken from the wild. For wildlife assistance, please visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website to locate a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.