UPDATE from July 12, 2017: Proposal amended and hearing scheduled for September 19
More updates soon!
Quick update (from April): Thanks to the hard work from dedicated local herpers and open ears from the council members, this broadly sweeping and far overreaching proposal has been amended but is still unacceptable with a complete ban on some animals including snakes over ten pounds and some small pets such as sugar gliders. We suspect it will be amended again and will post updates as the process moves along.
Special thanks to all involved in the fight for common sense over the propaganda radical animal rights fanatics including local stakeholders, aviculturists, and the great people at Stahl Exotic Animal Veterinary Services. USARK is only part of the equation and we appreciate those stepping forward to protect the freedoms of all responsible animal and pet owners.
Submit comments by one or more of the below methods:
1. Email: animals@arlingtonva.us, Countyboard@arlingtonva.us
2. In–person statement: Attend the public hearing on September 19 in the County Board Room, 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Third Floor, Arlington, VA 22201
3. Online: Arlington CiviComment tool at www.arlingtonva.civicomment.org/code-change-prevent-keeping-wild-or-exotic-animals-pets
4. Mail or hand delivery to below. Write “NO to Chapter 2 exotic animal ban” or similar on the envelope.
Arlington County Department of Human Services
Attn: Lyn Hainge
2100 Washington Blvd., Second Floor
Arlington, VA 22204
Sample letter/statement (Remember to be professional and civil at all times!)