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In regards to doing RESCUE/REHABILITATION that is with reptiles. In another thread it does NOT seem apparent to some "just why" "some of us" have such a STRONG belief in doing what is best for the reptile in question. Soo I thought i would post this so that others may better understand where exactly it is that "some of us" have been coming from in regards to the reptiles , especially in the area of RESCUE/REHAB/ADOPTION. Hopefully this will "help" to understand some of us and what we say/do better than has been happening recently..
This is a Rehabilitator's Code of Ethics..
I beleive that it is basically the same in most states as it is in mine. If anyone has anything different, please add it to this thread for others to see also. TYIA.

It should also be kept in mind that reptiles are a form of wildlife and when kept in captivity, they are still wildlife...whether or not they are indigenous to one's local or not even. When working with reptiles in the area of rescue/rehab/adoption ..The same basic principles would apply also to reptiles that have been obtained into the system of rescue etc that you would not find in your backyard also.

**A rehabilitator should strive to achieve high standards of animal care through knowledge and an understanding of the field. Continuing efforts must be made to keep informed of information relatibve to rehabilitation, methods and regulations.

**A rehabilitators attitude should be responsiblem conscientious, dedicated, and should continuously work toward inproving the quality of care given wildlife undergoing rehabilitation.

**A wildlife rehabilitator must abide by local, state, federal and provincial laws concerning wildlife, wildlife rehabilitation and associated activities.

**A wildlife rehabilitator should acknowledge limitations and enlist the assistance of a veterinarian or other trained professional when appropriate.

**A wildlife rehabilitator should respect other rehabilitators and persons in related fields, sharing skills and knowledge in the spirit of cooperation for the welfare of the animals.

**A wildlife rehabilitator should place optimum animal care above personal gain.

**A wildlife rhabilitator should stride to provide professional and humane care in ALL phases of wildlife rehabilitation, respecting the wildness and maintaining the dignity of each animal in life and death.

**The common goal should be to promote a responsible concern for living beings and the welfare of the environment.

**A wildlife rehabilitator should work on the basis of sound ecological pronciples, incorporating appropriate conservation ethics and an attitude of stewardship.

**A wildlife rehabilitator should conduct all business and activities in a professional manner, with honesty, integrity, compassion, and committment, realizing that an individual's conduct reflects on the entire field of wildlife rehabilitation.


Hope that helps to clarify where a lot of us have been coming from in recent RTB posts. [img]modules/Forum/images/smiles/icon_wink.gif[/img]
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