In November 2025, deputies in Jasper County, South Carolina, rescued 52 nonvenomous snakes that were left abandoned in boxes without food, water, or a way to escape. Investigators say the reptiles were being bred by a former employee at his workplace and were simply left behind after he was fired.

This is not just irresponsible. It is dangerous and cruel.

Currently, South Carolina does not require a license to own or breed most exotic reptiles like snakes. There are few to no statewide standards for the humane care, housing, or transfer of exotic animals. This legal gap puts both animals and communities at risk.

Without proper regulation, people can stockpile animals in poor conditions, breed them without oversight, and walk away from their responsibilities with no system in place to stop them.

We are calling on the South Carolina General Assembly to pass a statewide exotic animal care and licensing law that includes:

• Mandatory licenses for individuals or businesses that breed or keep exotic reptiles or amphibians
• Required inspections and humane housing standards for all exotic animal facilities
• Criminal penalties for abandonment, neglect, or unlicensed breeding
• Safe transfer or surrender protocols to ensure animals are not dumped or discarded
• A statewide registry for exotic animal ownership to track compliance and prevent hoarding

Sanctuaries and law enforcement should not be forced to clean up the mess when exotic animals are treated like disposable property.

Sign this petition to urge South Carolina lawmakers to protect animals, prevent abuse, and ensure responsible exotic animal ownership across the state.

Photo Credit: Live Now Fox