You’ve researched basic care, you’ve planned for the unexpected and the inevitable—you’re almost ready to provide an incredible pet with an incredible home! Before you make your final decision though, there are just a few more details to cover to make sure you’re paired up with the right exotic animal companion.
Is Your Pet Tame or Domesticated?
Most of us are used to cats and dogs—animals that have been bred for human companionship for thousands of years. Altering a species to fit human needs is called domestication, and it takes many generations to accomplish. Taming an animal is something that can be accomplished in a single animal’s lifetime, but it won’t be passed on to that animal’s offspring, and it isn’t always predictable.
For example, a wolf can be tamed by a human that has known it from a young age and developed a relationship of trust with it. But a wolf is not domesticated. For that, you need a dog—the domesticated version of the wolf. Make sense?
Many exotic animals, although bred and sold as pets, are not domesticated, and their behavior can be less than conducive to living with humans. This is something to take into account when considering making a housemate of an animal. There are also ethical considerations. Exotic pets that are not domesticated are not adapted (as a species) to living with people. They can be difficult to provide for and unhappy when living alongside humans.
Is Your Pet Legal?
The legality of owning exotic pets varies from one country to another, and even between different states or regions of the same country. Keeping a pet gerbil or ferret in California will put both you and your pet in a tight spot if you’re found out. Be a good citizen and make sure that the animal you’ve set your heart on is legal in your area—and don’t make plans to move soon.
What About Insurance?
Pet insurance can be especially helpful in covering the expenses associated with keeping an exotic pet. As discussed in our previous post, veterinary care for exotics adds up fast, and insurance can help you defray those costs. Insurance is also a good idea if you have others over or take your pet out. The behavior of animals (especially if they’re undomesticated) can be unpredictable, and you want to be covered should your pet bite someone.
Where Should You Get Your Pet?
There’s a reason “Adopt, Don’t Shop” has become such a popular maxim among pet lovers. Reputable breeders are difficult to find, so if you shop you run the risk of bringing home a pet that is poorly socialized or has underlying health conditions, as well as supporting an industry that causes animal suffering. Before heading to the pet store, use a site like Petfinder or call your local humane society to see if there are exotic animals in your area in need of a good home. There are lots of advantages to adopting an animal, including knowing that you’re supporting rescue work, giving an animal a second chance, getting information about your pet’s personality, and being able to ask questions of knowledgeable people who truly care about the animals in their charge. Wherever you choose to get your new pet, make sure you’re living up to your own idea of a responsible pet owner, and commit to giving your new friend the best life possible.
Congratulations! If you’ve completed our three-part series on Things You Must Know Before Getting an Exotic Pet, you have all the information you need to be a responsible exotic pet owner and provide a wonderful home for your new companion!
Do you share your home with an exotic pet? Tell us all about it in the comments, or tag @redfoxblogging in your pet’s photos on Facebook and Instagram.
