Adopting Exotic Pets: Know the Issues
Adopting exotic pets isn't as easy as taking home a puppy or a kitten. Exotic pets tend to have different needs both physically and legally. If you're looking to adopt an exotic pet in your home, then here are some tips to help you avoid the snags most owners run into.
1. Legal. Some pets are illegal to keep in some states. Monkeys, tigers, certain birds, and others may be outlawed in certain areas. And, while some of these animals may be allowed in a household, they could be under strict provisions.
It would be best if you consulted with your local government to find out whether the animal you're trying to adopt is legally allowed in your state. If so, find out about all the paperwork you will need for the pet, and find out about the provisions regarding its care.
Make sure you follow all the paperwork to a tee. This way you can prevent unnecessary run-ins with the local government -not to mention the ire of your neighborhood.
2. Physical needs of your animals. Exotic animals have exotic needs. You will need to keep this in mind when you adopt an animal. Study the background of the pet you're trying to adopt before consummating the adoption. Dogs, cats and other household pets are all acclimated to urban living. Unfortunately, this isn't the case for most exotic animals.
You'll at least have to give them an alternative to their natural habitat. This could cost a lot of money make sure you are willing to commit to this amount of effort and money. Also, you have to consider their diet - alligators, tigers, and other natural predators are hard to keep in captivity. You will have to make sure they get their dietary needs, and their space needs before considering adopting them.
3. The place of purchase. If you browse the Internet you'll be surprised at the number of online pet shops now available. You will want to do a background check on fees shops before purchasing from them. This is because it would be best to adopt your exotic pet from reputable sources.
4. Health. You'll also want subject your exotic pet to a physical exam to find out whether it is in good shape. Adopting a sick animal may exacerbate its condition. You really don't want to cause these animals more harm than needed. Also, make sure that these animals don't possess any life-threatening and communicable disease. Exotic animals can be carriers of different viruses, and bacteria. So make sure the veterinarian gives it a good bill of health.