Select a Pet
By Adrienne Kruzer, RVT, About.com Guide
In order to select a pet, it takes a bit of research on your part and it should never be done impulsively. There are many things you need to take into consideration before making a final decision, and this is the place to find the information you need to select a pet for you!
- Select a Pet
- Exotic Pet Laws
- Zoonotic Disease Concerns
- Ethical Issues with Exotic Pets
- Where To Get Your Exotic Pet
Select a Pet
Starting with the basic items you need to consider before you select a pet, this section will help you sort out the characteristics and needs of the different pets you may be considering.
- Choose an Exotic Pet
- Choose a Rodent
- Choose a Reptile - Beginner Species
- Choose a Snake
- Choose a Frog
- Choose an Insect or Spider
- Choose an Exotic Pet for Kids
- Choose an Exotic Pet for Small Spaces
- Choose an Exotic Pet for Apartment Living
- Choose a Pocket Pet
- List of Exotic Pets A-Z
Exotic Pet Laws
One of the first steps in choosing an exotic pet is to find out if you are allowed to own your desired pet. You need to check your local, state/provincal and federal laws before acquiring your pet. Checking laws is further complicated because regulations can fall under public health departments, agricultural departments, natural resources, general legislation and more. Here's advice on where to start checking.
- Is It Legal Where I Live?
- Monkey Pox, Prairie Dogs and African Rodents
- Illegal Sale of Water Turtles 4" and Under
- Exotic Pet Laws - State By State
Zoonotic Disease Concerns
Unfortunately pets can carry diseases that can be passed onto humans. Owners and potential owners of exotic pets need to be aware of the possible risks, and know how to prevent zoonotic disease from spreading.
- Salmonella and Rodents
- Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM or LCMV) and Rodents
- Monkeypox, Prairie Dogs, and Gambian Rats
Ethical Issues with Exotic Pets
There are many issues involved with exotic pet ownership and some are really ethical decisions. The term "exotic" encompasses a wide range of animals, some of which are domesticated and some of which are wild pets. The keeping of wild animals as pets is possibly the biggest ethical issue, but there are other things that exotic pet owners still need to keep in mind.
Where To Get Your Exotic Pet
Depending on the type of pet you have chosen to get, your options for getting that kind of pet may be limited. There are several sources to choose from to get your new pet, but not all exotic pets are as available as some.