In conclusion, while there are rising numbers of exotics being kept as pets, this sadly doesn’t replicate increased public understanding of their needs. The difficulties of keeping these animals are additionally typically underestimated by homeowners. Whilst exotics are not the only pets that can undergo welfare issues when not correctly cared for, there’s far more data available on the wants and correct care of cats and canine. There has been a recent trend towards maintaining non-conventional companion animals, also known as exotic pets.
American College of Zoological medication – Certifies veterinary specialists in zoological drugs which includes zoological companion species. providing the right social environment for extremely social species may be impractical or impossible in a home setting.
In contrast, many exotic pets have specialized necessities in captivity which are beyond the scope of many pet keepers to provide . The welfare of those exotic pets is commonly at risk through a mix of factors, together with an absence of accurate data obtainable on their care, incorrect husbandry, and the unrealistic expectations of homeowners. This is usually compounded by a lack of specialist veterinary care and a lower propensity for owners to avail themselves of such care . In this commentary, we review the suitability of a spread of exotic species, from the perspective of animal welfare and owner satisfaction, and make recommendations on which taxa could make appropriate companion animals.
These pets embody parrots, reptiles, amphibians and rabbits, in addition to small species of rodent such as degus and guinea pigs. Many of those exotic pet species are not domesticated, and often have particular necessities in captivity, which many owners don’t have the amenities or knowledge to provide. Keeping animals in settings to which they’re poorly adapted is a threat to their welfare. Additionally, owner satisfaction with the animal may be poor because of a misalignment of expectations, which further impacts on welfare, as it may lead to repeated rehoming or neglect. Although not strictly classed as exotic pets, guinea pigs have particular husbandry requirements that differ from these of other rodent species and rabbits. When their physiological and behavioral wants are adequately met, guinea pigs could make rewarding pets which might be neither expensive nor troublesome to maintain. Guinea pigs require a dietary source of Vitamin C; however, a number of latest studies have reported that homeowners are aware of this and many supplement their animals along with providing dietary supplies excessive in Vitamin C .