For decades, people have been fascinated by the huge amount of weird and wonderful animals in the world, and are keen to own them for themselves. Although exotic pets were popular before the internet, purchasing them now has never been easier. It is so easy to find and buy exotic pets online, from tiny reptiles like turtles and snakes, to deadly predators like tigers and lions. Sites like Gumtree contain many listings of exotic animals for sale, often seeing animals that people have liked the sound of before realising they do not have the means to care for them.
Another way the internet affects the exotic pet industry is through fads and trends which are promoted by people on social networks. Videos of cute animals are frequently posted and viewed, it is impossible to scroll through your news feed without seeing a cute cat or dog – but some of these cute animals are more obscure. Videos of exotic creatures such as sugar gliders encourage some people to rush into purchasing a pet that is rather difficult to look after, causing consequences for both pets and owners. Also popular are exotic looking cats, who are much larger than average domestic cats, like ocelots and servals. It is simply impractical for both owner and animal for these types of animals to be in a home, and the internet is promoting a culture where these cute animals are highly desired.
However, most owners do not realise the huge responsibility that they are taking on when deciding to care for an exotic animal. The infographic below shows some of the shocking statistics on the exotic pet trade, including the devastating effect it has on beautiful wild animals, to the way that it endangers the human population with disease and wild animal behavior.
(If infographic doesn’t work click here!)
So if you decide you want an exotic pet, make sure you think before you purchase one. Have you got the means to care for it? Or are you going to end up offloading it onto the web for another clueless person to buy?
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