Python

"We have nothing controlling exotics on a provincial level so each individual municipality, if they're experiencing a problem, or if they have foresight and want to deal with it before it occurs, they pass exotic animal bylaws.

There is a thriving exotic animal trade in Canada — involving everything from tarantulas to tigers and the giant constricting snakes, Laidlaw says.

Ontario laws are largely designed for native species, often because of concerns around such things as rabies, she said.

(City of Winnipeg/Canadian Press) "I think if you could prove that there's a legitimate conservation component to whatever work is being done with the snakes, or some other type of legitimate purpose beyond personal amusement, then as long as there are very strict criteria in terms of welfare, safety and this grander purpose, then that I think would be palatable to most people.

The saga of Darwin, the young monkey found wandering outside a Toronto Ikea store, led to calls by animal protection groups for stronger laws on exotic pets.

The saga of Darwin, the young monkey found wandering outside a Toronto Ikea store, led to calls by animal protection groups for stronger laws on exotic pets.

Only in exceptional circumstances Laidlaw looks to the current situation in New Brunswick, and sees a straightforward legal response.

But even if they survive, the quality of life that many of these animals experience is just abominable," says Laidlaw.