How to Locate a Pet Monkey Breeder

Monkeys are wild animals. Even monkeys raised by humans from birth are not domesticated animals like cats and dogs. They become aggressive around adolescence, bite and live for long periods of time. Many states ban possession of pet monkeys, and other states heavily regulate ownership. You can locate a pet monkey breeder online, but you shouldn't buy a monkey unless you are willing to give it proper care. Read on to find out what that is.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Research State Laws

1. Research pet monkey ownership laws before you contact breeders. Many states ban private ownership of monkeys. This can make it nearly impossible to locate proper veterinary care.
2. Rethink your decision to buy a monkey if you live in one of the 19 states that ban possession and sales of pet monkeys. Disobeying the law could earn you significant jail time or a hefty fine.
3. Search your state's website to make sure it is legal for you to own a pet monkey--or to find out what rules you will have to follow if you can.

Locate Pet Monkey Breeders Online

4. Search online for reputable monkey breeders in the United States. The "Pets 4 You" website has a list of pet monkey breeders in the US (see Resources below).
5. Write down the name, location and phone number for each pet monkey breeder you are interested in. Visit the breeder website if available to get acquainted with monkeys the breeder has available.
6. Post a wanted ad online. Websites such as "Monkey Maddness" sell advertising space targeted to people in the business of monkey sales and care (see Resources below).

Check Classified Ads

7. Read the classified ads in your local newspaper. Because pet monkeys ownership is often illegal, it may be difficult to find reputable breeders through regular channels.
8. Visit any breeder you find in the classifieds to be sure they run clean and well maintained breeding facilities. Look around at all of the animals to see if any of them seem ill or mistreated.

Speak to a Monkey Vet

9. Visit Monkey Maddness to find a list of monkey vets in your area. Contact each vet and ask them to refer you to a reputable monkey breeder.
10. Ask monkey veterinarians if you can place an ad for a pet monkey in their offices.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a monkey from a breeder in your state when possible. It will be easier to have the monkey checked by your own vet before you buy.
• Understand monkeys can be extremely expensive, especially when purchased from a reputable breeder.