Stop Traffic to Stop Trafficking
Event Details
August 16, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- This event has passed.
Hit the Road for Animals
Who: Anyone who loves animals and their car!
When: August 16, 2025 at 4:00pm
Where: Meet Up at the Busco IGA (609 S Main St. in Busco!)
What and Why:
We are trafficking across 2 counties to raise awareness for Exotic Animal Trafficking and the suffering it causes countless animals each year. On August 16th, Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is Stopping Traffic to Stop Trafficking! Drivers/Riders will meet in the parking lot of the Busco IGA and drive across 2 counties ending at Black Pine Animal Sanctuary for an evening of tours, food trucks, raffles, fun activities and of course ANIMALS!
In the last 60 days, BPAS has taken in 5 new animals. These new residents only make up about 20% of the requests we have received.
The exotic pet trade is a $40 billion industry annually, comprising both legal and illegal activities. With about $22.8 billion being generated through legal trade, animal advocates have their work cut out for them.
Over 1000 different species have been imported into the US, and many of these species are threatened or have declining populations in the wild. Reptiles are the most common, followed by amphibians, birds, and mammals, respectively. 4 out of 5 exotic animals caught in illegal trade will die in transit or within 1 year of captivity. These imports can have devastating effects on ecosystems.
Of the 140 non-native species of reptiles discovered in Florida, 85% were imported through the exotic pet trade. There were 91 incidents of death by exotic pets between 1990–2021. 75% of human infections started with an animal-borne disease. The exotic pet trade poses significant risks to human safety, often overlooked in discussions of animal rights. Invasiveness of species can disrupt local ecosystems, while improper handling may lead to injuries or disease transmission. Stricter regulations or outright bans are essential to protect both wildlife and communities. By prioritizing safety over profit, we can foster a more responsible approach to pet ownership and wildlife conservation.
