Exotic Pet Surrender Event - Baldwin

Struggling to Care for Your Exotic Pet? J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue Can Help
June is Invasive Species Action Month, a time when communities across Wisconsin come together to prevent the spread of invasive species and promote responsible alternatives to releasing unwanted pets. In honor of this important statewide initiative, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is hosting an Exotic Pet Surrender Event on June 13th from Noon to 3 PM at the Agriculture & Education Center, located at 1960 8th Ave, Baldwin, WI 54002.
This event provides a safe, judgment-free opportunity for individuals to surrender exotic pets they can no longer care for. Because rehoming options for exotic species such as fish, birds, reptiles, and small animals are limited in many areas, some owners may feel they have no choice but to release their pets outdoors. However, releasing pets is dangerous for both the animal and the environment—especially during Invasive Species Action Month, when we highlight how quickly non-native species can disrupt local ecosystems. This event offers a responsible, ethical solution.
Local organizations will be on-site to accept fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants—no questions asked. Attendees can also meet animal ambassadors and learn more about responsible pet ownership and environmental stewardship.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) is hosting this event with support from St. Croix County Land and Water Conservation, Pet Advocacy Network, and the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes.
This event has been generously sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
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 rehoming 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 find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Out-of-State Animals: Birds, reptiles, and mammals originating from outside Wisconsin must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate).