How to Recognize the Challenges of Owning a Wallaroo

From the very beginning, many challenges come with owning a pet wallaroo. These range from the amount of space needed to house one to the amount of attention they need, especially as babies. You should recognize these challenges and seriously consider whether the large macropod (animal species that also includes kangaroos) is the right for you. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Protection from predators
• Large corral
• Knowledgable veterinarian

Recognize the Many Challenges of Owning a Pet Wallaroo

1. Expect to face your first challenge when finding a reputable wallaroo breeder. Although other countries make buying exotic animals easier, there are only a handful of wallaroo ranches in the United States. Check out the breeder to make sure the animals live and breed in humane conditions.

2. Find a veterinarian willing and qualified to treat a wallaroo before you buy it. Of all the challenges you must face, this one may not surface until you have an emergency; but it should be foremost in your mind when preparing to own a wallaroo.

3. Know that you'll need a corral with several thousand square feet of open space to provide an adequate home for your wallaroo. While your pet can hang out in your house, it needs plenty of outdoor space to hop around and graze.

4. Prepare to spend the first year of owning your pet wallaroo carrying it around in your "pouch." You must replace the joey's mother, bottle feeding it every 2 to 3 hours and taking it with you almost everywhere.

5. Research the laws in your city, county and state before you buy a wallaroo. Some states require special permits, while others outlaw many exotic pets completely. Even in states with lax laws, you should check city ordinances, which are usually much tougher.

6. Keep all breakable objects and important papers out of reach. While the wallaroo won't rip apart your couch, it will hop on any flat surface it can and munch on just about anything. It doesn't recognize that your paycheck isn't food!

7. Know that without proper socialization, a wallaroo can become anti-social and aggressive. You will face additional challenges if you adopt an adult wallaroo that already has behavior problems.

8. Imagine the looks you'll get from your neighbors and people on the street. While some of this attention may be desirable, you will need to educate most people about your pet and why you own it. Expect at least one complaint to animal control about your pet wallaroo.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on your locale, you must provide safe shelter from dingoes, wild cats or coyotes. A wallaroo makes an easy target for these predators.