Exotic Pets: Are They Right for You?

Exotic pets have become very popular in recent years. There are the brightly colored parrots and tiny monkeys, but also reptiles, sugar gliders, even hedgehogs-more people are looking at an animal other than a dog or cat as a companion. These animals may be interesting, lovely, and extremely rewarding, yet they also bear special obligations and difficulties.

However, you should first know what exotic pet ownership is before you take the plunge. Exotic animals aren’t simply a cool pet that you add to your house, they are living creatures with certain needs and in most cases they need special treatment, housing, foods and even legal aspects. But how do you know whether an exotic pet is the kind you want?

It’s time to explore the real meaning of having an exotic pet and what the professionals consider responsible ownership. Pet Fresh Supplies we provide enough information for the pet owners to be informed about their pets.

What Exactly Are Exotic Pets?

Exotic pet is generally a term used when describing any animal that is not a domesticated dog, cat, or farm animal. The reptiles, frogs, macaws and cockatoos, ferrets and chinchillas, and even some monkeys and wild cats belong to this category.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) notes that exotic pets are associated with complex health, behavior, and nutrition requirements which the common pet owner may find challenging to address. An animal being sold in a pet store or on the Internet does not mean it is a good fit with your domestic life, nor is it even legal where you live.You can read more about dogs or your pets from our blogs.

The Allure and Reality of Exotic Pet Ownership

It is difficult to refute the fact that exotic animals are interesting. Having a parrot on your shoulder in bright colour or a shiny snake in a terrarium are mesmerising.However, these animals are not mere talking points, they are lifetime investments. In contrast to dogs and cats, some exotic pets can live for decades. Another example is Macaws which have a life span of 60 years or longer.

Board-certified avian and exotic pet veterinarian Dr. Laurie Hess points out that you do not learn about exotic pet care overnight. She cautions in an interview with PetMD that most exotic animals do not show symptoms of sickness until it is too late. Their care isn’t intuitive. Owners have to do some research and locate trained vets and spend money on special diets, light and habitat needs.You can read the specific dog breeds article for more details on dogs

Legal and Ethical Considerations

It is not legal to keep all exotic pets in every place. An example of this would be the prohibition of the keeping of particular reptiles, big cats, apes, or even animals that are venomous in many states within the United States. Before bringing an exotic animal into your home, you must always ensure to check local, state and federal regulations.

Legality is not the only consideration, but ethics. Most exotic animals are taken out of the wild, or reared under unsanitary circumstances. We must promote breeding that is responsible and ethical and not using animals through the black market. The Humane Society of the United States advises potential owners not only to ensure that the animal was obtained ethically, but also to know how such a choice will impact conservation

People are interested in knowing their dog’s good Pet Care Guide

Can You Meet Their Needs?

Complex care is one of the largest issues surrounding exotic pets. For example:

Reptiles require a certain amount of humidity, temperature differences, UVB light, and in many cases, they need to be fed live.

The birds require other birds to interact with, mental stimulation and room to fly.

Small mammals such as ferrets or sugar gliders require company and may well become behaviorally problematic in its absence.

Vet check-ups can be a problem too. Not every vet is trained to treat exotic species and emergency treatment may not be accessible in your location. Before you buy an exotic pet, it is a good idea to find an exotic pet veterinarian.

Cost Is More Than Just the Purchase Price

The other factor that is mostly ignored with owning exotic pets is the cost. Some animals might look cheap on the face of it but the maintenance eaten up the money. Special diets, veterinary treatment, habitat improvements and enrichment products are expensive. You cannot just always run over to the local pet shop and get whatever you need as with ordinary pets. Numerous exotic pet foods have to be brought in via the Internet or specialized stores.

Questions and Answers About Exotic Pets

Are exotic pets dangerous?

There are not dangerous exotic pets, although there are exotic pets that may be dangerous. Big snakes, big cats or even venomous animals can destroy you, your family or other pets. Even little creatures such as parrots can bite seriously unless handled well. It has to be very trained, respected and know how that animal behaves.

How can I find a reputable breeder or seller?

Find licensed breeders with complete health records and care directions. Do not deal with sellers who promise to ship animals without the paperwork or those who do not provide you with an opportunity to visit the breeding plant. Exotic pets may also be found on websites such as Petfinder and are sometimes available to be adopted and agencies, such as the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV) may provide advice.

Are exotic pets good for kids?

As a rule, young children should not have exotic pets. A significant number of such animals are vulnerable or easily stressed and may harbor diseases that can be transmitted to humans (zoonotic diseases). When you have kids, you should do your research on the safe ones and monitor every interaction.

Can exotic pets be trained?

There are exotic animals that can be trained to some degree. An example of an intelligent species is the parrots, which can learn tricks or words. Ferrets are trainable to litter. Other species, however, such as reptiles or amphibians, are extremely poor trainees or socializers. Learn the boundaries of each species and then make a choice.

What’s the best exotic pet for beginners?

Leopard geckos, corn snakes and budgerigars (parakeets) are usually suggested to beginners. They are fairly easy to maintain as compared to other exotics, although they do need special treatment. Research is essential, and you should not adopt a pet because it is a trendy animal.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get an Exotic Pet?

It can be a rich, satisfying experience to keep an exotic pet–but only when you are ready to make a commitment. These animals should have the same attention and love they would any dog or cat, and in most instances more. Don’t rush into the exotic pet keeping business before learning all the tasks involved, consulting with experts, and always keeping the well being of the animal first, and novelty or beauty second.

Use reliable sources like PetMD and The Humane Society of the United States in order to inform your choice. Talk to an exotic animal veterinarian. And should you still be attracted to one of these rare animals, after your inquiry, and able to satisfy its wants–you may well be the one to give it a loving, informed home.