At Paskapoo Pet Services, we’re thrilled to announce that we’ve joined the 'Don’t Let It Loose' recognition program from the Alberta Invasive Species Council! This certification highlights our commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and protecting Alberta’s native ecosystems👍
Owning a pet or aquarium can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with serious responsibilities. One critical issue that’s often overlooked is what to do when you can no longer care for a pet.
Unfortunately, some pet owners choose to release unwanted pets into the wild, thinking it’s a kind and compassionate solution. In reality, this can have devastating consequences for the environment, native wildlife, and even the pets themselves.
🚩The Growing Threat of Invasive Species
Invasive species are organisms that disrupt local ecosystems when introduced outside their natural habitats. In Alberta, the problem is escalating due to both accidental transportation and intentional releases.
Examples include:
Goldfish and koi fish: Over 100 populations have been documented in Alberta, where they outcompete native fish and disrupt aquatic habitats.
Ornamental flowering rush: This plant has infested lakes and river systems, choking out native vegetation.
Zebra mussels: Recently found contaminating aquarium moss balls (marimo), zebra mussels pose a catastrophic threat. Their establishment in Alberta’s waterways could decimate aquatic ecosystems and cost the province $75 million annually, primarily in irrigation infrastructure damage.
For those who own aquarium fish or exotic pets, it’s essential to know Alberta’s regulations. Certain species, such as tench, zebra mussels, quagga mussels, and yellow floating heart, are regulated, and releasing live fish into Alberta’s waters can result in fines of up to $100,000!
Even when released with the best intentions, domesticated animals are often ill-equipped to survive in the wild. They may face extreme temperatures, lack of food, or predation, leading to a tragic end for the animal.
Spread the Word, Not the Species! 🐠🚫
Have an aquarium fish you can’t keep? Or maybe a reptile, a turtle or small animal you’re no longer able to care for? The 'Don’t Let It Loose' program emphasizes that rehoming pets, returning them to the pet store, or seeking help from local organizations are far better alternatives than release.
Instead of releasing them into the wild, there are much better (and kinder!) options:
Return them to the pet store: Many stores are happy to take back unwanted animals.
Donate them: Schools, science centers, zoos, or community organizations often welcome pets for educational or exhibit purposes.
Rehome them: Find a responsible new owner who can provide proper care.
If rehoming isn’t possible, a qualified veterinarian can humanely euthanize the animal. While this is a difficult choice, it’s far better than risking starvation, predation, or the destruction of local ecosystems.
A Shared Responsibility 😊
By joining the 'Don’t Let It Loose' program, Paskapoo Pet Services reaffirms its dedication to preserving Alberta’s biodiversity. We believe that every pet owner can play a part in preventing the spread of invasive species by making informed, responsible choices.
Remember: Don’t Let It Loose! 🐟❤️
Want to learn more about invasive species in Alberta or how to prevent their spread? Visit the Alberta Invasive Species Council’s website for helpful resources. Together, we can make a difference!
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