11/25/2025
📝 PETITION TO ESTABLISH ANIMAL WELFARE & PUBLIC HEALTH STANDARDS FOR REPTILE SHOWS/ EXPOS EVENTS IN GREENE COUNTY, MISSOURI
To:
Greene County Commission
Greene County Public Health
Greene County Animal Control
Springfield-Greene County Environmental Services
We, the undersigned residents of Greene County, respectfully request the adoption of stronger animal welfare and public health standards for any reptile- or exotic-animal–related sales events held within the county.
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BACKGROUND & CONCERNS
Traveling reptile expos and similar events often involve conditions that create a high risk to both animals and the public, including:
Animal Welfare Concerns
• Reptiles displayed in containers that are too small for natural posture
• Inadequate or inconsistent temperature and humidity controls
• Lack of access to fresh water during long periods of travel and exhibition
• Continuous interstate transport with little to no recovery time
• Exposure to hundreds of other animals in close quarters without quarantine or medical records indicating a clean bill of health.
• Stress-related behaviors, weakened immune systems, and elevated illness risk
• Vendors selling animals without temperament assessments or long-term health records
Public Health Concerns
Crowded, high-volume events can spread:
• Mites and mite-borne pathogens
• Respiratory infections
• Zoonotic diseases
• Internal parasites
• Viral illnesses documented in reptiles (including Nido, Adenovirus, Crypto)
These issues pose a risk to local families, pets, veterinary clinics, and educational facilities.
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WHAT WE ARE ASKING FOR
We request Greene County adopt basic, reasonable, enforceable standards, including:
✔️ 1. Required Health Documentation
All animals must have proof of health, free of obvious disease, verified by a veterinarian prior to exhibition.
✔️ 2. Proper Enclosure Requirements
Display containers must allow natural posture, access to clean water (when species-appropriate), and be maintained at safe species-appropriate temperatures.
✔️ 3. Transport & Holding Standards
Vendors must demonstrate animals were not subjected to unsafe temperatures, starvation, or dehydration during travel.
✔️ 4. Biosecurity Measures
Vendors must provide a plan for sanitation, waste disposal, and prevention of cross-contamination among animals.
✔️ 5. Temperament Screening for Animals Marketed as “family pets”
Animals sold as “beginner-friendly” or “safe for children” must meet temperament standards appropriate for novice families.
✔️ 6. No Sale of Sick, Injured, or Aggressive Animals
Vendors must be held accountable for misrepresenting animal behavior or selling animals unfit for handling.
✔️ 7. Facility Oversight
County health or animal welfare representatives may inspect reptile events to ensure compliance.
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WHY THIS MATTERS
These regulations do not prevent reptile lovers from enjoying the hobby.
They simply ensure that:
🐍 animals are treated humanely
🧒 families are protected
🏥 the community avoids preventable outbreaks
🪳 county-wide infestations (mites, disease, etc.) are minimized
📚 ethical reptile education is prioritized
🦎 responsible local businesses are supported
We believe Greene County deserves safe, humane, and ethical reptile-related events — not traveling environments where animal welfare and public health are compromised.
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PETITION SIGNATURE SECTION
Name: ______________________________
Address (City/Zip): __________________
Email (optional): ____________________
Signature: __________________________
