Once again Walter’s World of Pets brought a variety of critters to the Lamb County Library Summer Reading Program on Thursday, June 22, 2023. The theme for the week is Kindness to Animals. The selection of exotic animals included species who are not for sale as pets. The animals are part of a breeding program for species at risk of going extinct as the result of human activity in their natural habitat. The greatest kindness humans can provide is to ensure the survival of endangered species.
One hundred and sixty-five program participants and family members gathered to learn about exotic animals exhibited by Jarrod Dale and his assistant, Andrew Reye, on behalf of Walter’s World of Pets in Lubbock Texas. Mr. Dale also brought some program favorites that included a pet Colombian Boa Constrictor, Mickie the Macaw, and Sidney, the Spider Monkey.
The endangered species included a Cuban Iguana, a Dwarf African Crocodile, (which he explained would only grow up to 6 or 8 feet long), and a Galapagos Tortoise. Mr. Dale mentioned that they also have an Asian species of crocodile that he did not bring.
During the presentations of the animals, Mr. Dale gave the program participants an interesting overview of each species, and then took questions from the youngsters. Following the presentation, Mr. Dale patiently stood at the door and allowed every participant the opportunity to have a last look at the animals he brought, and to touch the pet Colombian Boa as they left the library. Most of the guests enjoyed the experience, however, a few of them politely declined.