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United States Association of Reptile Keepers, Florida

Keepers' Code of Ethics


The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida strives to uphold the highest ethical standards in the keeping, care, breeding, and sale of reptiles and amphibians.

USARK of Florida considers the health, well-being, and safety of reptiles and amphibians to be paramount.

USARK of Florida maintains that public safety, biological and environmental integrity, and the safety of keepers to be crucial regarding reptiles and amphibians kept under human care.

USARK of Florida endorses the use of only clean, well-constructed, and secure enclosures to house reptiles and amphibians.

USARK of Florida endorses the use of strict safety protocols in the housing and handling of reptiles and amphibians.

USARK of Florida objects to minors keeping venomous reptiles, crocodilians, or large constrictors.

USARK of Florida objects to reckless and irresponsible behavior in regards to the keeping, breeding, or transferring of reptiles and amphibians.

USARK of Florida objects to negligent shipping and transportation procedures which are not humane, safe, and secure.

USARK of Florida believes it is the personal responsibility of every keeper to educate themselves on the specific requirements of any animal they wish to keep as a prerequisite to ownership.

USARK of Florida considers access to quality medical care and veterinary care to be required for responsible ownership.

USARK of Florida endorses training and mentoring programs necessary to ensure the highest standards of proficiency in working with reptiles and amphibians.

USARK of Florida regards the intentional release of non-native reptiles and amphibians into the wild as highly irresponsible and believes there are NO circumstances that justify the act.

USARK of Florida is committed to conservation, education, and community outreach. Spreading factual information about reptiles is crucial to overcoming cultural bias, negative stereotypes, and unsubstantiated fears that threaten the private ownership of these magnificent creatures, as well as their continued survival in the wild.

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