Hello, I believe exotic animals, to a certain extent, should be allowed as pets on base. I will be petitioning Fort Bliss Military Housing to consider changing its pet policy asap. The animals I’d like to be considered allowed on base housing include:

•Ball pythons, western hognose snakes, rosy boa, corn snakes, California King snakes, milk snakes, tree boas, water snakes, green snakes, and gopher snakes

•Non-venomous snakes whose full size reaches at or under 8’

•Non-venomous lizards/geckos under 3’,

I know these animals are not a danger to anyone, I believe those living on Fort Bliss just needs to be properly educated on that. We live in a desert full of animals much more dangerous than the ones I’ve listed.

The reason for this petition is because I’ve struck a large interest in ball pythons and other exotic reptiles as of late. With extensive research, I know none of these animals would harm anyone or thing. They couldn’t damage the properties, especially not like new puppies do when chewing up walls and other things. All animals listed above are all contained in small, securable enclosures. They would not pose a threat to anyone. State and city laws/regulations would still be in effect, but these animals mentioned are perfectly fine to own. Also, ball pythons for example, require high humidity levels, so if it for any reason got out in Fort Bliss area, the high temperatures and dry heat would not allow it to survive for long.

These animals are an area of passion for many soldiers around the world and due to base regulations in some areas, they’ve had to move to off-base housing which is SO much more stressful (speaking from experience). If this petition gains enough attention, I believe Fort Bliss Housing will have enough support to change the current pet standards.

For all passionate animal lovers like myself, please share and sign this petition. Thank you all.