Responsible pet guide
Helping consumers in the US make informed decisions about exotic pet ownership
Humans have long valued exotic animals, whether viewing them in the wild, in a zoo, or keeping them as pets. Pet owners want what is best for their animals and this guide aims to provide the resources and considerations they need prior to obtaining an exotic pet, or if they can no longer keep a pet, to make informed and responsible decisions about pet ownership for themselves, their community, and the environment.
Exotic pets are any animals intended as companions other than domestic dogs, cats, or farm animals. While many exotic animals may make suitable, low risk, and inexpensive pets, others do not and instead can be enjoyed from afar in the wild or a zoo. You might be tempted to get an exotic pet after seeing a cute photo or video on social media. Before getting a pet, it is important to know that you can properly provide for the animal for its lifetime and to obtain your animal from a trusted breeder or seller that can prove it came from a legal source. While most animals sold as pets in the US are captive bred in hygienic facilities, some live animals are still taken from the wild for the pet trade.