Why the June 22nd Reptile Event Was Pulled — And Why We at Frogfather Support the Decision
On June 6th, 2025, Woodbank Garden Centre in Bingley withdrew its support for the International Herpetological Society (IHS) event planned for June 22nd. The event was officially cancelled, following pressure from Bradford Council and concerns raised by animal welfare organisations.
These events, often presented as hobbyist “shows,” have increasingly come under fire. Critics argue that they are large-scale commercial sales operating under the radar of proper pet shop licensing laws. In many cases, animals are transported in cramped, temporary tubs, lacking the appropriate heat, humidity, light, and hydration. Woodbank’s decision to step away reflects a rising awareness—and refusal—to support practices that fall short of ethical animal care standards.
A Pattern of Cancellations and Growing Scrutiny
This isn’t the first time IHS events have been pulled. Over the past several years, similar shows have quietly disappeared from venue calendars. Organisers often cite vague logistical issues, but the underlying driver is almost always regulatory or ethical concern. Local councils are increasingly unwilling to approve events that may breach the Pet Animals Act 1951, which prohibits the sale of animals as pets without a license in place.
In many cases, venues are warned that continuing with the event could result in prosecution. Faced with legal jeopardy and public backlash, venues often choose the path Woodbank did: withdraw support and publicly state a commitment to animal welfare.
Where Frogfather Stands
At Frogfather, our mission is crystal clear:
We believe in humane, loving, and species-appropriate care for all frogs and amphibians.
That’s why we create bioactive vivariums that mimic the natural ecosystems these animals evolved in. Our custom enclosures aren’t just stylish or low-maintenance—they’re built to support real biological needs like airflow, microclimate zones, hiding spaces, hydration cycles, and natural behavioural enrichment.
We’re not against shows or community events in principle. But we are against the commodification of frogs and reptiles in a way that disregards their welfare. The cancellation of the IHS show is an important moment—not just for the herp community, but for anyone who genuinely cares about the lives of the animals we keep.
What This Means for the Herp Community
- Welfare is winning: Shows must now consider how animals are housed, transported, displayed, and sold. Basic care is no longer enough—keepers are expected to do better.
- Regulators are taking notice: Councils are watching. And that means events need to be not just legal, but demonstrably responsible.
- Buyers are demanding better: Hobbyists are more informed than ever. They don’t want to support practices that hurt the animals they love.
At Frogfather, we believe this pressure is a good thing. It means the bar is being raised. And we’re proud to help lead that change with our products and philosophy.
Don’t Just House Your Frogs — Honour Them
Whether you keep dart frogs, tree frogs, or toads, your animals deserve more than a glass box. They deserve a living ecosystem that respects their instincts and needs.
Explore our handcrafted, species-appropriate enclosures here:
👉 https://frogfather.co.uk/product-category/bioactive-vivariums/
These vivariums are:
- Fully bioactive with substrate layers, microfauna, and live plants
- Designed for optimal airflow and humidity retention
- Customisable for different frog species
- Built to last and support healthy, enriched lives
In Summary
The IHS Show cancellation is not the end of herp events—but it is a clear warning: we must put animal welfare first. The days of mass-sale markets run out of garden centres are numbered. And honestly? That’s a step forward.
At Frogfather, we stand with those pushing for better care, better housing, and better ethics in our community. Because these aren’t just frogs—they’re lives. And they deserve better.
