A quest for the exotic seems to motivate some people to pass up dogs and cats for the unknowns associated with nontraditional pets. When Junior asks for a sugar glider (small rodents imported from Indonesia), Gambian pouched rat, or flying squirrel, consider how it will affect the household.

“Exotic wildlife doesn’t make good pets,” says Jeff B. Bender, DVM, MS, assistant professor veterinary public health at the University of Minnesota. “We don’t want to encourage folks to want to buy exotic animals, especially those that come from outside the country, or dangerous animals—venomous snakes, the big cats, or primates. Those are inherently dangerous.”

Wild Vs. Domestic Animals

Many exotic pets are wild animals and as such are unpredictable. They are not suited for captivity. Do not plan on taming one. Although cute and cuddly as babies, once grown up, they may become aggressive or bite.

The American Animal Hospital Association, the Animal Protection Institute, and the Humane Society of the United States discourage people from keeping wild animals as pets. Confining wild critters increases their stress levels. Many destined for the pet market die in transit.

Bender warns people not to touch or try to help an orphaned raccoon or other wild animal. Call the authorities, who can take the animal to a wildlife sanctuary.

Animals sold in pet stores may not be tame. Ask where the animal came from. Was it imported from the wild or bred in captivity?

Marc Morrone, owner of Parrots of the World Ltd., a pet store in Rockville Centre, NY, sells chinchillas, ferrets, and hedgehogs. He considers them domesticated animals, because humans, through selected breeding, control the genes.

Selecting and Housing a Pet

Morrone believes “children should be encouraged to explore any interest in the natural world.” He pointed out that many people do not have time for dogs. But other animals can be responsive and, because caged, will not interfere with a busy lifestyle. “A child who grows up taking care of and being humane to another organism is going to be a more humane person.”

Bender cautions potential pet owners to opt for an animal that provides companionship, is great to interact with, and that you are not going to discard in a year or so because you become bored with it. He recommends US-bred hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs,or rats if you want a small “pocket pet,” or fish if you want a low-maintenance animal. Consult your local veterinarian about an appropriate pet for your needs.

If you decide to move forward with an exotic pet:

• Avoid monkeys, tigers, venomous snakes, skunks, and other wild animals.
• Learn all you can about the animal before buying.
• Check local and state laws regarding harboring the type of pet you want.
• Talk to someone who already owns that type of animal.
• Purchase animals born in captivity in the United States—not exotic wildlife.
• Find a veterinarian familiar with the type of animal you are considering.
• Take the animal for regular medical care if it becomes sick.
• Buy an appropriate cage, supplies, and food.
• Avoid reptiles if you have small children or if someone in the home has a compromised immune system.
• Never release an animal you are tired of caring for into the wild. It can expose native animals to disease.
• Wash your hands after handling the pet or anything it has touched.
• Do not let reptiles wander around the house.
• Keep the animal out of the kitchen.
• Do not kiss or nuzzle reptiles.