How to Choose the Right Exotic Pet

"Exotic" pets usually refer to animals that are either rare or rarely kept. Wolves, chimpanzees and lynxes all fall right into this category. Others include iguanas, centipedes and scorpions. You may consider a rare domestic dog, cat or fish breed exotic. If you are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary pet, learn about the pros and cons in order to choose the right exotic animal to share your home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Knowledge of local, state or federal ordinances regarding pets in your area
• Reference material on unusual pets

Assess Your Personal Preferences

1. Consider whether you want pets for display or to handle. Display pets, such as venomous or very powerful or destructive animals, are always considered dangerous. Exotic pets you can physically handle (with caution!) include non-venomous snakes, lizards and arachnids, some large, wild dogs or cats and occasionally (with the right training) larger species.
2. Evaluate your emotional reasons for wanting an exotic pet. Some animals, such as ferrets, parrots and rodents, can be easily trained and may respond to humans with affection. Others, such as snakes and centipedes, may not.
3. Explore your passion for a certain species. Knowledge and curiosity about the history and behavior of an animal is a more enduring guideline than a passing attraction for a popular, pretty or "cute" pet.

Assess the Needs of Different Exotic Pets

4. Determine whether you can afford the money investment. Learn how long your prospective pet will live, then add up the lifetime costs of the animal itself, shelter, food, gear, veterinary expenses and any permit fees.
5. Remember that the animal's needs will change as it grows.
6. Consider the time and emotional investment. Many exotic pets can live for decades. Determine whether you are young enough, strong enough and have enough time in your schedule to care for your pet over the course of its lifetime.

Tips & Warnings

• Read about exotic pets in general and the particular animals you are considering before you choose to own.
• Think long-range. Some pets can grow very big and live a very long time. Be sure you wish to make that commitment.
• Laws regarding keeping exotic or wild animals differ by area. Research them before you choose.

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