From May 2022, Preloved will no longer allow the listing of certain exotic animals. This will include:
- Anacondas
- Burmese, Reticulated, and African Rock Pythons
- NTCA Morphs (Spider and Enigma)
- Raptors (Birds Of Prey)
- Owls
- Falcons
- Eagles
- Hawks
- Condors
- Ospreys
- Buzzards
Preloved remains the safest and most trusted website for the rehoming of animals in the UK. To maintain this it’s vital we update our procedures based on recommendations from welfare experts. That’s why we work closely with members of Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG) and welcome their suggestions. We spoke with the British Veterinary Association to learn more.
BVA President, Justine Shotton, told us: “We have long argued that it is impossible to meet the unique and varied welfare needs of certain species as they require specialist care to live a happy and healthy life.
“We are pleased Preloved is taking a step in the right direction to ensure that certain species cannot be advertised and rehomed on the site as making these animals less accessible makes it more difficult to purchase them on a whim.
“We would always urge people considering buying an exotic animal to think twice to make sure all of their complex welfare needs can be met.”
Complex Needs Of Exotic Animals
The needs of most domestic pets are largely understood due to a wealth of online information. However, certain exotic animals have very complex dietary and environmental needs. Buyers who aren’t prepared or fully understand these needs can be left with a pet they’re unable to care for. This results in hundreds of exotic animals abandoned or surrendered to UK rescue shelters every year.
There are also legal requirements to take into account. UK law doesn’t specify the types of birds of prey that can be bought. But it is against the law to own raptors not born in captivity. Many prospective owners may not know this.
Exotic animals are still wild animals. Their natural instincts may pose a threat to inexperienced owners. Species such as the Reticulated Python are some of the largest pet snakes available. These animals aren’t suitable for novice owners. They’re also unsuitable for homes with children.
Preloved Statement
Here at Preloved we pride ourselves on exceeding the Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG)’s minimum standards when it comes to animal welfare, and our policies reflect this. In order to achieve that, we welcome the advice and recommendations of those with expert knowledge.
On the request of PAAG and the British Veterinary Association, Preloved has decided to remove rehoming ads of certain animals. It is felt these animals, which includes in part Birds Of Prey and Anacondas, are unsuitable for sale to the general public through classified websites as, unlike domestic pets, they have incredibly complex and specialist care requirements.
Whilst we understand responsible Preloved members aim to find only the best of homes for their animals, we feel that Preloved is not the most suitable site for this particular sector and a more niche platform would better support them in sourcing well-informed buyers. Our primary concern is, as always, the welfare of the animals in question.
