KNOXVILLE, TN – August 3, 2025 – The Healthy Trade Institute (HTI) announced the official launch of its nationwide Herp Adoption Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative that provides a health-verified, science-backed solution for surrendered reptiles and amphibians. Developed in a unique partnership with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, the program not only offers a safe new beginning for pet reptiles and amphibians in need but also provides invaluable hands-on training for future veterinarians.
The HTI Herp Adoption Program addresses a critical need in the pet trade for reputable and humane surrender options. Each animal entering the program receives a veterinary health assessment and is tested for common pathogens such as chytrid, ranavirus, adenovirus, and Cryptosporidium. This ensures that every animal rehomed through HTI is healthy, providing peace of mind to new owners and promoting a healthier pet trade.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine to bring this much-needed program to life,” said Dr. Matt Gray, President of The Healthy Trade Institute. “This is a win-win for the pet trade. We are not only giving surrendered herps the care and attention they deserve, but we are also providing crucial training opportunities that will help shape the next generation of exotic pet veterinarians.”
“This program also protects wild amphibians and reptiles by reducing the likelihood that unwanted pets are released into the wild,” said Dr. Emi Knafo, a zoological medicine specialist at the veterinary college. “When owners have responsible alternatives, ecosystems stay healthier and responsible pet ownership is strengthened.”
To sustain and expand this vital program, HTI is actively seeking donations from the public. Every contribution directly funds the veterinary care, pathogen testing, housing, and food for the surrendered animals, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
The program is currently accepting pet amphibians, bearded dragons, and ball pythons. The HTI will expand to all snake species (excluding Burmese and reticulated pythons) in October 2025, with more reptile species added in 2026. The public is encouraged to stay tuned for future updates.
About The Healthy Trade Institute The Healthy Trade Institute (HTI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to fostering ethical and responsible pet trade through science, education, and collaboration. HTI’s mission is to provide industry-led solutions that promote animal health, protect the environment, and benefit both pet owners and businesses that sell pet reptiles and amphibians.
About The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is comprised of the Herbert College of Agriculture, UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch, and UT Extension. Through its land-grant mission of teaching, research and outreach, the institute touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennesseans and beyond.
Media Contact: Matt Gray – The Healthy Trade Institute – healthytrade.org
[email protected]