Is An Exotic Pet Right For You?

Are you in the market for a new animal companion? Dogs and cats are of course the most popular pets out there, but they aren’t the only options. In fact, you may find that exotic pets have some great qualities. A local Pickerington, OH vet goes over some of the ins and outs of owning an exotic pet in this article.

Benefits Of Exotic Pets

Exotic pets may not be for everyone, but they have some great qualities. They’re all very unique, which is a huge draw for those who want a pet that’s a little unusual. Exotics can also be really fun and interesting to watch, not to mention super cute. Plus, many exotics live in cages or habitats, and don’t need much space. This makes them a great option for anyone who lives in an apartment.

Choosing An Exotic Pet

Many different animals fall under the umbrella of exotic pets. They all have specific care needs, so it’s important to do lots of reading before adopting one. A ferret is a fun, active little buddy that will keep you on your toes. If you want a quieter pet, a gecko may be more your speed. Consider your potential pet’s life expectancy, adult size, dietary needs, and habitat requirements.

Buying

If you’ve decided that you want to go ahead and adopt an exotic pet, that’s great. Be sure to go through a reputable store or dealer. Unfortunately, there is still an issue with animals being caught in the wild and resold. This is problematic for several reasons. For one thing, it’s not a very good outcome from the animal, as wild animals often do not adapt well to the life of being a pet. This also strains fragile ecosystems, both by removing animals from their natural habitats and, in some cases, introducing them in places where they can thrive and actually threaten native wildlife. The everglades are a good example of that.

Tips

Before buying any animal, it’s important to be sure that you are ready to commit to caring for them for the rest of their lives. You’ll also need to have a great vet on your team, one that is experienced with herps. Do you have questions about caring for an exotic pet? Contact us anytime! As your Pickerington, OH animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care.