In summer of August 2026 our rescue, Scalez and Tailz Exotics, among many others, was thrust into a heart-wrenching situation that highlighted a distressing gap in Kentucky’s animal protection laws. We responded to a call for help for more than 60 reptiles in a property in Dawson Springs, Kentucky, where we found all signs of neglect and abuse. Tragically, many of these creatures, including snakes and lizards, perished before we could reach them. Those that survived were in dire need of immediate medical intervention and care. This heartbreaking event underscored a critical issue: the lack of explicit legal protection for reptiles and other vertebrate animals in Kentucky.

Currently, Kentucky’s animal cruelty laws KRS 525.125, KRS 525.130, and KRS 525.135
 do not clearly encompass reptiles and some other vertebrates under their protection. This legislative oversight leaves them particularly vulnerable to neglect and abuse, as was painfully evident in the recent case we encountered. Although the community and rescue networks rallied to save those we could, it became clear that without legal reinforcement, these creatures would continue to suffer largely unseen and unprotected.

Statistics show that reptiles are increasingly popular as pets across the United States. The American Pet Products Association estimated in a recent survey that over 5.4 million households in the U.S. own at least one reptile, and Kentucky is not an exception to this growing trend. Reptiles, like any other animal, can feel pain, experience stress, and require adequate habitat, nutrition, and veterinary care to thrive. Yet, without clear legal protection, they fall through the cracks of our justice system.

We call upon the Kentucky General Assembly to amend and clarify Kentucky’s current animal cruelty statutes KRS 525.125, KRS 525.130, and KRS 525.135 to explicitly include reptiles and all vertebrate animals. By doing so, we can prevent neglect by instituting penalties that deter maltreatment and promote responsible pet ownership. This change will ensure that no matter their species, all creatures are granted the dignity and care they deserve under the law.

We have an opportunity to make a significant positive impact for the voiceless. Our state can stand as a beacon of compassion and responsibility, showing the nation that we are committed to protecting all animals from cruelty and neglect.

Sign this petition to urge the Kentucky General Assembly to take immediate action to amend the animal cruelty laws and safeguard the welfare of reptiles and all vertebrate animals. Together, we can create a humane future for all living beings in Kentucky.