https://facebook.com/events/s/-halloween-sur-glace-halloween/1072169422236130/​

https://facebook.com/events/s/reptiles-dont-like-cold-arenas/1099412796159695/?

Protest October 24, 2026, at 6:30pm.  At 12001 Boulevard de Salaberry, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9B 2A7, Canada.  

I understand that you want to offer an exciting experience for your guests, and the majority of the activities you have planned for the events look wonderful. I am, however, deeply concerned by the planned animal handling event, and wanted to take this opportunity to share why and ask that you consider cancelling the animal handling element of the otherwise brilliant events. 

Most of the species used in animal handling activities are prey species. This means they are biologically wired to be very afraid of unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells as a way to help keep them alive. Being transported and then picked up and handled in a loud and busy environment can be deeply stressful for these animals. They are incredibly sensitive and delicate, and are at risk of being injured by curious kids who don’t always understand the need to be gentle. Stress isn’t just an immediate issue either - if animals are consistently put into stressful situations, they are very vulnerable to physical and mental illnesses. 

These events could also be impacting the way younger generations grow up to view animals. Framing animals as ‘creepy’ reinforces learned fears of certain species, and could limit the empathy and compassion children have towards them. Passing animals around to be handled could also be reinforcing the idea that animals are objects or toys. The animals used in these experiences are wildlife, and children should be encouraged to enjoy and respect animals in their natural habitats. 

Handling animals like this also comes at a public health risk. Reptiles like snakes and lizards naturally carry Salmonella bacteria and E.Coli in their digestive tracts, and can pass the bacteria to humans without appearing ill or infected. Small mammals like rabbits and mice will often scratch or bite if stressed, which then risks a tetanus infection. 

There is so much potential harm that could happen before, during, and after an animal handling experience that is not worth the few minutes of interest it would create for the children who have plenty of other fun activities to enjoy at the Halloween events. 

Fun and friendly alternatives to the animal handling experience could be a spooky treasure hunt, building a slime lab to conduct creepy experiments, or creating halloween themed sensory bins. There is no need to use animals as entertainment. 

Thank you for bringing the issue of using reptiles and other exotic animals in holiday displays at the Dollard-Des-Ormeaux (DDO) to our attention. Your commitment to animal protection and welfare is not only commendable but essential for prompting real change.

Activities involving animals, particularly reptiles and other exotic species, in recreational and educational settings can unwittingly encourage practices that are detrimental to the well-being of these creatures. When these animals are displayed, especially during high-attendance events like Halloween and other holidays, they are often handled by children and adults alike. Such interactions, while seemingly harmless, can lead to stress, injury, and long-term health problems for the animals involved.

According to the Montreal SPCA's Compassionate Education Program, animal-free educational activities are not only possible but preferable, offering engaging and enlightening experiences without compromising the welfare of non-human participants. This is reinforced by numerous studies which highlight that reptiles and exotic animals, when removed from their natural habitats and subjected to unnatural handling, can suffer from increased stress levels and reduced life expectancy. In fact, a report by the British Veterinary Association noted that reptiles kept in captivity often fail to meet their complex needs and are therefore prone to health issues.

We urge DDO to lead by example and transition to more humane practices by eliminating the inclusion of live reptiles and exotic animals in their public displays. Instead, we propose alternative forms of entertainment and education that spotlight the rich biodiversity of our planet without causing harm. Interactive digital presentations, holographic displays, and educational workshops can offer exciting and informative experiences without compromising the welfare of animals.

By focusing on compassionate and sustainable educational programs, DDO can uphold its reputation as a forward-thinking community, dedicated to respecting and preserving animal life. Let us unite to ensure that future generations learn about wildlife in a truly responsible and empathetic manner.

We call on the residents of DDO, animal lovers, and compassionate individuals from near and far to demand that DDO discontinue the use of live exotic animals in its holiday displays. Please sign this petition to show your support and help pave the way for a kinder and more compassionate approach to community events.