When people think of pets, dogs and cats usually come to mind. A person may have a pet rabbit or hamster, but usually nothing more adventurous than that. Some animal lovers buck the trend and go for something more unusual. It may require special care and maintenance, and become an engaging hobby. In return, the pet may be a real talking point with others and attract much attention. We will now discuss seven interesting choices that might be just right for you.
-
Lizards
It is true that some lizards can break bones, plus they can bite on occasion. Whilst they are not necessarily child-friendly, many people choose to keep such species as leopard geckos, chameleons, or bearded dragons. They have to be budgeted for because their enclosures will require electricity and there will be special food required.
Fortunately, the internet is a rich resource for potential pet owners. Some sites show the best lizards in terms of popularity, and those most suited for beginners. Advice can be given as to each species’ temperament and size, and the specialist care required. In some cases, lizards can live for up to 20 years.
-
Skunks
Most people think of the horrendous smell that can be secreted from their glands. For this reason, few people may consider skunks as pets. The reality is that the offending gland can be removed when the animal is a baby. Once this has been done people are left with a playful animal that enjoys toys.
Any skunk owner will be able to tell you that they make great pets. They are intelligent and sensitive by nature. Having said that, it’s essential that someone makes full research in advance, as they will require specialist care and attention.
-
Hedgehogs
Lovers of Sonic the hedgehog in video games may find these appealing. Despite their prickly exteriors, they are actually calm and friendly. Like cats and dogs, they also respond to their owners.
Hedgehogs enjoy crickets and mealworms. It’s important to speak to your local pet shop as they may recommend special food that includes additional vitamins and minerals.
One thing to be aware of is that they are nocturnal. Anyone desiring an active daytime pet may need to look elsewhere.
-
Boa Constrictors
Let’s face it: snakes freak many people out, and for understandable reasons. Would-be buyers need to be sure their State allows them to be kept at home. They can grow very large, so don’t plan on keeping one in a tiny space forever.
From the 30-odd species available, people may choose from the common boa or rosy boa to the red-tailed boa or viper boa.
-
Stick Insects
They can be something a little tamer for both the young and the old. There are almost 3,000 species and they are cheap to keep. You won’t hear them and they won’t make the room smell like some pets do.
These fascinating pets look like twigs and will be well camouflaged amongst the foliage that will surround them. They love to climb on to things and to hang from them. Don’t just buy one, however, as they are primarily social animals.
-
Tarantulas
Anyone who has seen the film, ‘Arachnophobia’ may react to keeping one of these at home. The professionals recommend curly hair tarantulas or the Mexican red knee tarantula for new pet owners.
Tarantulas have barbed hairs that can create irritation on some peoples’ hands. If someone were to panic whilst holding a tarantula it may become threatened. This is when the spider is most likely to give a bite that hurts like a bee or wasp sting.
When its cage requires cleaning, it will be better to steer it to an alternative holding area briefly, rather than trying to lift it up. They can be fast movers too, so don’t get caught out!
-
Madagascan Hissing Cockroaches
Most people find cockroaches an unpleasant discovery if they are found at home. If someone decides to keep them as pets, however, they will find them easy to look after. They are child-friendly creatures and can live for up to five years. For this reason, they are on the rise as to popularity.
Interestingly, the hissing sound they make occurs when they force the air out of their bodies through special holes.
There are many more weird and exciting pets people can choose from, but these examples are well worth considering. They each require very different care, have different temperaments and live for different amounts of time. If someone makes the right choice, however, they will enjoy their unique and distinctive pet for some time to come.