Are your kids badgering you about buying a bearded dragon that they have seen at a friend’s house? You might have hoped this was a short-lived fascination that would go away once something else comes along. If not, and you're having to give it some serious considering, we have a helpful guide.
Before you agree to it, you need to have a serious think about how an exotic pet will fit into your life at home, where a dog or a cat can be good company, a furry friend to play with and a great accompaniment on a walk, your reptile will be a very different kettle of fish. You also need to check with local authorities as to what you're legally permitted to have as a pet.
If you're looking to get an exotic pet, you need to research and prepare yourself for the pet. To help you decide, we have come up with a list of pros and cons of owning an exotic pet for kids, so you can make an educated decision.
What Are the Pros Of Having An Exotic Pet?
Exotic pets have certain charms to them that are completely different from traditional pets. These days it's not all that unusual to hear of people having a chameleon, bearded dragon, or even a ball python as a pet. So what does that mean for you?
Exotic Pets Are Easy To Care For
Although owning exotic pets may sound daunting, they are actually relatively easy to care for. Sometimes they are even less demanding than a cat or a dog. And if you think their dietary need will be hard to manage, you couldn’t be more wrong. Most reptiles, birds, and mammals live on insects, and you can buy those insects from any pet store. For instance, Dubia Roaches will be the perfect diet for a chameleon, bearded dragon, or even a pet tarantula. Exotic pets don’t need you to walk them three times a day like your dog does, so if you feel you don't have the time to set aside for exercising a pet, this could be a good choice for you.
Exotic Pets Can Live For a Long Time
Kids grow up building emotional attachment with their pets, and it can be heartbreaking when a pet dies. If you have ever experienced the death of a family dog, you can certainly relate. One good thing about owning an exotic species as a pet is that most of them can live for a long time; some can even outlive you. While a dog's lifespan is 10-13 years on average, some reptiles and birds can live up to 20-40 years! That can make these pets your kid's lifetime companions.
Children Will Learn About Biodiversity
Understanding biodiversity and the relationship of that to amphibians is hugely important, and owning a reptile will certainly encourage more knowledge in that area. Biodiversity has become such an important part of our lives and imparting that knowledge to the next generation is critical. As well as that, exotic pets are fascinating creatures that have existed on thsi plant for longer than many other creates. From their diet to social interaction, kids can learn about the species in a very hands-on way.
They Will Grow Up Fearless
Exotic animals have this unfair reputation of being dangerous; however, most exotic pets are completely docile. The misconception stems from people's general fear towards anything unusual or different. Sometimes the reptilian appearance with the scaley exterior and scary looking faces can lead us to believe they are dangerous. But most of them are quite harmless. Do your research and ask at your local pet store for guidance. You'll be pleasantly surprised. Having an exotic pet for your kids will be a great way to eliminate this irrational fear of unfamiliar or different things. And what better age than childhood to teach your kids not to fear animals? .
Kids Who Are Allergic To Cats and Dogs Can Have a Pet
Many kids are allergic to dogs or cats because of their fur and dander. If that's the case for you children, there is no reason they have to feel left out from the joy of owning and caring for a pet. An exotic aquatic pet (jellyfish, seahorse), or some reptile (turtle, lizard, bearded dragon), or even small animals or mammals that don’t shed fur dander can be the perfect hypoallergenic option.
What Are the Cons Of Having An Exotic Pet For Kids?
Despite all the pros, there are some cons of owning an exotic pet. Before you make an exotic pet a part of your family, you should be aware of the responsibilities and the risks that come with it. Here are some downsides of owning an exotic pet-
There Is Ethical Concern about Owning An Exotic Pet
There is an ever growing belief that animals should remain in their natural habitat, rather than living in a quiet corner of our home. And denying this right to animals is considered cruel and unusual by many people. Alongside that, illegal capturing and trading of exotic animals is of great concern, so you need to do as much research as possible on this before you commit. Investigate the exotic animal pet seller you're considering to ensure you are not inadvertently contributing to this black market.
They Are Not Cuddly
One of the perks of owning a pet is that they reciprocate the love you shower them with, and they express this love by cuddling with you or physically being closer to you. Besides, kids crave physical display of affection, and they might want the same from their pets. Obviously, this isn't the kind of interaction you'll get with a lizard or tarantula. You need to make sure everyone in the house understands this.
There Is a Fear of Disease
Animals that grew up in the wilderness might be the bearer of unknown diseases. And some illnesses are common in different species despite them growing up in domestic settings. For instance, reptiles like turtles, geckos, lizards, snakes can carry and spread salmonella. Reptiles, mammals and other small animals can spread some other zoonotic diseases. You will be required to quarantine the pets once you acquire them and closely follow your vet’s recommendations and advice.
So, in conclusion, the decision to get an exotic pet is a significant one - it will change your lives for a very long time. Everybody at home has to be signed up to this commitment. If the ethical concern over owning an exotic pet is putting you off having one, consider rescuing a pet to save them and give them a better life. Much like places that take in abandoned cats and dogs, there are sanctuaries that do the same for exotic pets.
