Millions of Americans keep pets that come from all over the world—fish, reptiles, birds, plants, and small mammals that bring color and life into our homes. But when these animals or plants escape or are released into the wild, they can cause serious harm. Invasive species can outcompete native wildlife, spread disease, and disrupt entire ecosystems. As pet owners, we have a responsibility to make sure our animals and plants never become a threat to nature.

Why It’s a Problem

When a non-native species is released into the wild, it may find ideal conditions to thrive—often without natural predators or competitors. This allows it to multiply quickly and push out native species.

A well-known example is the red-eared slider turtle, once a popular pet sold in large numbers across the United States. Many owners released them into ponds and lakes when they grew too big. Today, red-eared sliders are found in many states, where they compete with native turtles for food and nesting sites.

Aquarium fish and plants can also cause trouble. Species like goldfish, plecos, and certain aquatic plants have established wild populations after being dumped into local waterways. Even a few surviving individuals can start a population that changes water quality, vegetation, and food webs.

What the Law Says

It is illegal to release non-native animals or plants into the wild in the United States. Federal laws such as the Lacey Act and state-level regulations prohibit the release of certain species and restrict their trade. Violations can result in fines or other penalties, but more importantly, they can cause long-term ecological damage.

If you’re unsure whether a species is restricted, check the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s list of injurious wildlife or your state’s Department of Natural Resources website. These resources identify species that are banned or regulated because of their potential to become invasive.

What to Do If You Can’t Keep Your Pet

Sometimes circumstances change—a pet grows too large, becomes too expensive to care for, or no longer fits your lifestyle. But releasing it into the wild is never the answer.

Here are safer, more responsible options:

• Contact a local animal shelter, rescue group, or zoo that may be able to rehome your pet.
• Ask the pet store or breeder where you bought the animal if they can take it back or help find a new owner.
• Reach out to online adoption networks or local hobbyist groups that specialize in your type of pet.
• If the animal is sick or cannot be rehomed, consult a veterinarian for humane options.

The key is to ensure your pet does not end up in the wild, where it could suffer or harm native species.

Be Careful with Aquarium Water and Plants

Even small amounts of aquarium water or plant material can contain snails, eggs, or fragments that survive outdoors. When cleaning your tank, pour used water down the drain, not outside or into storm drains, ponds, or streams. Dispose of unwanted plants, gravel, and substrate in sealed plastic bags in the trash, not in compost or gardens.

Think Ahead Before You Buy

Before bringing home a new pet, take time to research its needs and long-term care requirements. How large will it grow? How long will it live? Can you provide the right environment for its entire life? Many invasive species problems begin when owners underestimate these factors.

• Learn about the species before you buy.
• Purchase only from reputable, legal sources.
• Avoid species listed as invasive or potentially harmful in your state.

By making informed choices, you help protect both your pet and the environment.

A Shared Responsibility for Nature

Owning a pet is about more than caring for one animal—it’s about respecting the natural world we all share. Every time we prevent a non-native species from entering the wild, we help preserve America’s ecosystems and the native plants and animals that belong there.

A little awareness and responsibility go a long way toward keeping our environment healthy for generations to come.