The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association is re-launching its #handsoffmyhobby campaign as Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish voters go to the polls in May.
This time, the trade association is asking businesses and hobbyists to ask their local politicians where they stand on the issue of exotic pets and proclaim their pride at keeping exotic species like ornamental fish.
“All ornamental fish are exotic in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland so anyone who keeps fish essentially has an exotic pet.
“It’s probably not what many people think of when they use that term but we need to make sure politicians know what’s involved if they seek further controls on exotic pet-keeping,” said OATA chief executive Keith Davenport.
“These elections give us a great opportunity to start raising local politicians’ awareness that exotic pets cover a wide spectrum of species that perhaps they haven’t realised.
“Their decisions could stop a whole host of animals from being kept as companions. Ask them – do they really want to see pets like goldfish and guppies banned from our homes?”
For more information visit www.handsoffmyhobby.org
