PUBLIC SUBMISSION | As of: February 06, 2009 Tracking No. 803ab884 Comments Due: April 30, 2008 |
Docket: FWS-R9-FHC-2008-0015
Injurious Wildlife Species; Review of Information Concerning Constrictor Snakes from Python, Boa, and Eunectes genera
Comment On: FWS-R9-FHC-2008-0015-0001
Injurious Wildlife Species; Review of Information Concerning Constrictor Snakes From Python, Boa, and Eunectes genera
Document: FWS-R9-FHC-2008-0015-0483
Comment on FR Doc # E8-01770
Tyler, TX, 75701
Submitter's Representative: Louie GohmertGreetings,
I am a very normal guy. Father of three, pediatrician, and active community
member. In addition to a love of "typical" pet animals such as dogs and cats,
my family keeps reptiles, including a Ball Python and a Hogg Island Boa
constrictor.
While these specific animals are smaller members of the constrictor snake genera
mentioned in the proposed ban FWS-R9-FHC-2008-0015 I am concerned with our
government limiting keeping of these species.
Dangerous incidents relating to these animals are REMARKABLY RARE. One is far
more likely to be seriously harmed by a pet dog than a large constrictor whom is
properly kept.
Pet snakes do require a keeper with knowledge. The way to encourage this
knowledge is NOT to respond irrationally to histrionics by a frightened and
poorly informed few who view snakes in general as a pariah. Proper breeding and
education will result in keepers who treat these animals with respect and care
for them properly and appropriately.
I tire of the view some hold that "the only good snake is a dead snake." There
are many normal people like me who have grown to love these fascinating
creatures and respect their role in our magnificent God-given cornucopia of
creatures.
Please do not rush to limit the joy of many of us by responding irrationally to
the concerns of a few.
Sincerely,
Michael D. Austin, MD