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Finding the right pet for your family is not an easy task. You must consider what goals you have for the experience and how much effort and expense you can
afford. Children benefit from the companionship of an animal and from the responsibility of caring for another living being. However, children can't be responsible for
the pet’s care without the support of adults. They will not enjoy a pet that becomes a chore, and neither will you. Children should not have to bear the loss or illness of a pet because they were forgetful.
Families sometimes plan to use pets to teach children about reproduction. If you plan to breed your pet, look into the financial burden as well as the time commitment necessary to raise young animals that will make good pets. Consider a visit to the animal shelter to help children understand that we
need to find homes for the pets that are already here before we make more. You might even
foster a pregnant cat or dog through the humane society. Some humane societies
do not have facilities for new born puppies and kittens. When the babies are
adoptable, the animal shelter can help you find good homes for the offspring and
offering a home to the mother means you'll be saving
a life.
Farm animals and exotic animals imported for the pet trade offer many pet options. If these animals are new imports, check with your local animal shelter to be sure they are permitted in your area. Pocket Pets include hamsters, lizards, birds, fish, and even tarantulas. Recently sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and llamas have become
popular pets.
Exotic pets have exotic needs.
 | Fish need a precise pH and temperature in their water.
| Snakes eat other animals and frogs may eat each other.
| Chinchillas need special sand to bathe in.
| Chameleons will only drink running water.
| Female ferrets become ill if they are not neutered (spayed).
| Small birds eat ground shells or sand to help digest their seeds.
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You may need to purchase special equipment for an exotic pet such as a heater or special food. You will need to
read a good book on caring for your exotic pet to be sure you aren't missing something important. Pet store sales staff can help and it would be a good idea to contact an exotic
veterinary office for advice.
Often, staff at local zoos will be of help referring you to special veterinarians when a pet is very rare and veterinary help is difficult to find.
There are only a few veterinarians trained to treat these pets so find one before you need to. Medical care for exotic pets may cost more than it would cost to replace the pet. However, when you take on
a new pet you must consider the financial responsibility to the pet you already
have.
Providing an appropriate environment for an exotic animal is not always easy. However, the enjoyment and education that a pet can provide are well worth the effort. Pet ownership has all the rewards of a great friendship; unconditional love, entertainment, and mutual interests. However, it also comes with
responsibilities, and commitment to your friend’s needs. Exotic Pets to
Consider
| Degus, Chinchillas |
| Flying Squirrels, Sugar Gliders |
| Rats, Mice, Hamster, Gerbils, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits |
| Hedgehogs and Prairie Dogs |
| Snakes, Lizards, Hermit Crabs |
| Frogs, Toads, Salamanders |
| Tarantulas, Millipedes, Scorpions, Roaches |
| Emus, Ostriches |
| Llamas, Goats, Horses |
| Ferrets |
| Fish, Venus Fly Traps, Octopus, starfish, sea horses |
| In some areas monkeys are permitted. You might even become a foster home
for a monkey in training to help a disabled person. |
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