Australian wildlife authorities have fined a Gold Coast resident who recorded himself taking his pet snake for a surf.
After a video of Higor Fiuza and his bredli carpet python Shiva surfing went viral earlier this month, the two became local celebrities, as reported by BBC News.
However, their brief fame also alerted wildlife protection officials. They claim that by taking Shiva out in public, the man violated the terms of his permit to keep the snake and put her at risk.
The Queensland Department of Environment and Science claims that it started looking into the surfing group after Mr. Fiuza made local news. This week, the department fined him A$2,322 (£1,207; $1,495).
Stressing Animals Out?
According to wildlife officer Jonathan McDonald, bringing native pets out in public might lead to "unnecessary stress" and cause them to "behave in an unpredictable way."
The incident also sparked worries about public safety and the potential risk that the python would infect nearby species with diseases, he noted.
Shiva likes the water, Mr. Fiuza has already informed the local media, and she has gone surfing with him at least ten times.
Shiva is not the first animal to achieve recognition at Rainbow Bay for surfing. A duck with the moniker Duck frequents the area and has even been observed stealing waves from Steph Gilmore, an Australian surfing champion.
Another one is Pork Chops, a British bulldog, that amassed a sizable Instagram following for his surfing adventures with owner and surf instructor Sam Rollinson before the dog passed away in 2021.
Read also: Angry Octopus Attacks Man on Australian Beach, Viral Video Shows
The Surfing Bug Across the Country
Australians have always had a deep affinity for the ocean, and it seems our pets are catching the surfing bug too. This growing trend of dogs, cats, and even the occasional rabbit taking to the waves is making a splash in the country's coastal communities.
One of the epicenters of this unique trend is Bondi Beach, where the iconic "Bondi Surfing Dogs" have become local celebrities. These talented canines, with their impressive surfing skills, have garnered a dedicated following on social media, attracting visitors from around the globe eager to catch a glimpse of their incredible talents.
Australia's love for pets isn't limited to just watching them ride the waves. Surf schools for pets have popped up along the coastline, offering lessons for furry friends keen to paddle out.
These schools provide a safe and supervised environment for pets to learn the ropes of riding the waves, complete with specially designed pet-sized surfboards.
For many pet owners, hitting the waves with their beloved animals is about more than just fun; it's a unique bonding experience that strengthens the human-pet relationship.
Related article: Surfer in Critical Condition After Shark Attack in Australia
