When most people hear the phrase “exotic pets”, the first animals that generally come to mind are monkeys and tigers. However, many mild-mannered, pocket pets that can be found in homes across the United States are also considered exotic. Because we have a team of exotic veterinarians, Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital welcomes a wide variety of exotic pets into our facilities for treatment or ongoing care. But what pets are considered exotic and are they all dangerous? Keep reading to find out!
Exotic pets can be any animal that is not commonly kept but can be domesticated and kept by an owner. This could be as simple as a tarantula or as complex as a caiman crocodile that requires a permit to own. Simply put, many different exotic pets can easily be obtained if someone is looking for them. However, it is important to note that not all exotic pets can be seen by veterinarians, particularly if they are less common than other pocket pets or are aggressive by nature.
There’s no doubt that there is something special about bonding with a non-traditional pet and finding companionship with them. If you are interested in owning an exotic pet, you don’t have to set your sights on a Siberian tiger or a chimpanzee. There are a wide variety of exotic pets that make great companions and won’t be dangerous to the owner. Some pets that are considered exotic that you may be interested in include:
- Hedgehogs – Because they are so small, hedgehogs have become a popular exotic pet for a variety of reasons. However, they typically are not a good fit for homes that have small children that may be rough with them because they can extend their quills if frightened. Because they are nocturnal, these pets are great for individuals that are home during the evenings.
- Potbelly Pigs – While most people falsely believe that some pig species will stay small forever, the average pig will grow to around 125 pounds. Pigs are incredibly smart and will quickly learn how to open a pantry door or fridge in search of a snack, making it important to assert dominance over them early. Much like dogs, pigs can be trained and make great pets for the right owner.
- Pocket Pets – Small rodents like mice and gerbils are often considered “pocket pets” because of their small size. Because they don’t take up much room, they are a great companion pet for children and adults alike. Even better, these low-maintenance pets are easy to take care of and require far less investment than other exotic pets may.
- Reptiles and Amphibians – There is a wide variety of lizards, frogs, and turtles that make excellent pets. One common lizard that has become popular is the bearded dragon. While some reptiles can cause harm if they are scared, they are generally mild-mannered and make a fun addition to the family.
While only a small sample of the pets that are considered exotic, these animals are considered a great starting point for anyone interested in taking care of a non-traditional pet. No matter what pet you choose, it is important to ensure they have the proper support and care needed from an exotic veterinarian.
Why Choose Advanced Care for Exotic Animal Veterinary Services?
Advanced Care is more than just a primary care hospital. Our patients and clients are special to us and are the reason why we always treat everyone who comes to visit as another member of our family each and every time they walk in our doors. We do not treat every patient the same because we understand that each one requires individualized care and attention.