Am I qualified to be an adopter?
The FWC is always looking for experienced exotic pet owners to be adopters in our Exotic Pet Amnesty Program. We require adopters to have knowledge about the proper care for the animals they want to adopt.
Does it cost money to be an adopter?
It’s free to be an adopter. However, the cost of supporting a pet for the next 10-20 years should be taken into account before applying.
How do I apply?
Simply fill out and submit an adoption application. There are two parts to the adoption application: the adopter information form 
and the animal information form 
. The animal information form has a drop down list of animal categories; you may choose one category per animal form. Applicants only need to submit the adopter information form once, but can submit more than one animal information form.
Forms can be submitted online (if using Adobe versions 9 or X) or printed and mailed to the address listed on the last page. All forms must be signed by digital signature or by hand. If your application is unsatisfactory, it will be returned to you for improvement. If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of acceptance.
Please be aware that we can’t approve anyone as an adopter at an amnesty event; you must apply prior to the event so we have time to review your application.
Do I need a permit to adopt animals?
You don’t need a permit to adopt animals that do not require a permit for possession, many fish species and some invertebrates like tarantulas and emperor scorpions. If you want to adopt anything else, you must possess a valid license for that animal. Information on these types of animals and the permits required to possess them can be found online in the FWC Captive Wildlife area.
I have a Class III permit. Do I need to fill out the applications?
If you have a Class III permit, you still need to fill out both the applicant and animal information forms. In addition, if you have a Class III license for exhibition or public sale, you’ll need to sign and notarize our affidavit if you do NOT intend to sell or trade the animals you adopt.
We waive the animal information forms for those species that require annual inspections: Class I, Class II, conditional and venomous species, but applicants still need to fill out the applicant information form.
Whom can I talk to for more information?
Liz Barraco, Amnesty Adoption Coordinator
Liz.Barraco@MyFWC.com
954-577-6409
888-IVE-GOT1
Jenny Novak, Amnesty Program Coordinator
Jenny.Novak@MyFWC.com
850-617-9554
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