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Here is my letter. Feel free to disseminate it.
Hello (public official name),
My name is (your name). As a herpetologist and owner of several species of reptiles, I ask you to oppose (bill number and title). In my experiences in working with and maintaining snakes and other reptiles, I have found that if maintained correctly and are provided with secure enclosures, that reptiles, including those mentioned in the bill such as (examples of reptiles mentioned in the bill), pose little to no threat to the general public. One is far more likely to sustain injuries from the domesticated dog, where average of 17 lives are claimed by dogs each year, and nearly 800,000 victims are bitten, with at least 334,000 of those serious enough to require hospitalization. Despite the common emotive myth that exotic animals are difficult to care for, there are numerous resources including literature from bookshops and libraries or newsgroups and web pages constructed by those experienced in maintaining exotic animals that an individual who wishes to own an exotic pet may access.
I am fully aware of the fact that reptiles and other exotic animals carry diseases such as salmonella. However, practicing basic hygiene, such as hand washing after physical contact with a reptile, can easily thwart this bacterial disease. Among the practices of the (your state or area’s herp. Society) include educating the public regarding possible diseases that are transferred from animals to humans and how to prevent contracting them. In the US, the most common origin of salmonella is from improperly cooked meats, where between 90 and 95 % of salmonella cases originate. It is also known as a fact that domesticated animals such as dogs and cats are also capable of spreading diseases such as rabies, cat-scratch disease, and ringworm infections.
In conclusion, I ask that you oppose (bill number and title). I believe that a far more reasonable solution to owning exotic animals would be to implement a permit system for animals mentioned in (bill number and title) that may be revoked if the owner does not demonstrate competence in maintaining their exotic animal. If you wish to contact me regarding further information, I may be reached (your phone number or email address).
Thank you for your time,
(your name)
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