Not A Pet

Did you know that high global demand for exotic pets fuels the illegal capture and trade of millions of animals, many of which suffer and die in the process? Not only is the buying and selling of many exotic pets illegal, but the trade can lead to zoonotic diseases: diseases that can be transmitted to humans or other animals. Wildlife trafficking and zoonotic diseases are complex, global problems and can feel overwhelming when you don’t know how to help or where to start. The Not a Pet campaign by AZA's WTA and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), addresses the illegal trade of live wildlife as pets and the risk of zoonotic diseases caused by the live pet trade (both legal and illegal). Luckily, there are actions you can take to help.

Join Us in Taking Action to Protect Wildlife.

Take the pledge to protect animals from the illegal pet trade and to receive tips and additional actions you can take to help wildlife.

1. Be Smart with your Cart

   • Before you think about buying an exotic pet, make sure you are fully informed about your purchase.

2. Show Care when you Share

• As consumers of social media, we must be careful about how we engage so we don't unintentionally promote illegal activities or other harmful activities.

3. Advocate for Animals

   • Be an advocate for wildlife and help the people around you understand that certain animals don’t make good pets.

I Travel for Wildlife

AZA’s Wildlife Trafficking Alliance envisions a world where people work together to end the illegal wildlife trade. “I Travel for Wildlife” is a collaboration of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, airports, and state wildlife agencies, to educate the public about wildlife trafficking and reduce demand for illegally-traded wildlife and wildlife products that might be encountered while traveling. The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport launched the pilot exhibit in May 2022, and other locations will follow in the coming months.

Join Us in Taking Action to Protect Wildlife.

We need your help to stop wildlife trafficking at home and while traveling. Pledge today to make choices that help save endangered animals around the world.

1. I will shop for legal, ethical souvenirs when I travel.
2. I will eat sustainably when I travel.
3. I will share responsible animal images when I travel.