The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (Washington) in November released a new document it co-produced with the Global Invasive Species Programme designed to prevent pets from adding to the invasive species problem.

“Pet Pathway Toolkit: Tools and Best Management Practices to Minimize the Risk of Introducing Invasive Species Through the Release or Escape of Pets” was unveiled during the 2011 Convention on Biological Diversity’s Scientific and Technical Subcommittee in Montreal. The project implements a decision made by the Convention at its 2008 meeting in Bonn, Germany.

The toolkit contains information on nonregulatory and regulatory approaches adopted around the world to minimize the release and establishment of unwanted pets as invasive species. The document, which can be downloaded at the newly launched www.petpathwaytoolkit.com, also includes links to resource materials.

Users can search for case studies on the website and submit their own best practices for potential inclusion.

The website and toolkit will be updated with new material, including legislative details and new initiatives, as it becomes available, according to PIJAC.
Examples of invasive alien species that were likely introduced, intentionally or unintentionally, into natural environments through the pet trade pathway include:

• American bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus; formerly Rana catesbeiana) in water gardens (also human food pathways and bait).
• Feral domestic cat (Felis domesticus/Felis catus).
• Lionfish (Pterois volitans) (also possible introduction by divers and public aquarium).
• Monk/Quaker parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus).
• Red-eared turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) (also human food pathways).

The project was funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (United Kingdom), the American Pet Products Association (Greenwich, Conn.), Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association Ltd. (Westbury, England), PIJAC and PIJAC Canada (Ottawa, Ontario). [February 2012 PET AGE]