With a demand for pets and related products comes opportunity for financial profit from those able to provide new choices to the public. When a product is offered for sale, the goal of the business offering the product is to cut costs to maximize profits. Without overdoing the economics lesson, anyone can see how a live "product" might suffer under this system. This often happens with animals offered for sale. Exotic animals are trapped in great numbers and shipped as inexpensively as possible to maximize profits. Domestic animals, such as donkeys, cats and dogs, are kept in low cost facilities and bred as frequently as possible.

Use your purchasing power to support only pet traders who balance profits with animal care. Don't be trapped by feeling sorry for the animal and buying him anyway. Your pet’s parents will not be rescued from producing more offspring to fill the space your purchase leaves behind. Poor care prior to your purchase can affect your pet's behavior and health including his ability to become a well adjusted pet. As soon as you purchase the animal, the business owner will be able to acquire another for sale.

A final issue of concern with ownership of all pets, but especially of exotic animals, is providing a proper habitat for an animal adapted to the wild. It can be very expensive and difficult to provide a rainforest or pond within the confines of suburban homes.   However, many people do just that. If you are considering purchasing an animal for your enjoyment whether it be competition, hobby, or companionship, be an educated consumer and be prepared to consider the appropriate care of any animal seriously before you buy. Then find a professional breeder who will help you set your pet up for success and a healthy, long life.