b'Exotic PetsHey all you cool cats and kittens. recently starred in his own movie, so owning a hedgehog would be entertaining. We all saw how much Michael It was the tagline that took over the first fewJackson loved his chimpanzee, Bubbles; it cannot be that months of 2020. Carole Baskin, American big- hard introducing one into a regular family, right? cat rights activist and CEO of Big Cat RescueDepending on the exotic animal, they may require no uttered her now-famous catchphrase on Netflixmore care than the common dog or cat. There is an ex-documentary series, Tiger King, and nothing hasotic pet out there for anyone. Want a pet good with kids? been the same since. The show was the talk of theInvestigate a squirrel monkey, which is small and playful. town, sparking a lot of conversations, from the treatmentNeed a hypoallergenic pet? Think about a dwarf pig. of wild animals, to shady business dealings, and a miss- They are 100% hypoallergenic and love cuddling, so al-ing (and possibly murdered) husband.lergy sufferers may have found their perfect exotic match. Beyond the colorful antics of Joe Exotic, Tiger KingLooking for something a little more on the extreme side? shined a light on the private ownership of exotic animals.A Burmese python may be the animal for you, although In the United States, over 13 percent of householdsyou need to make sure you have the space for them. report having at least one exotic animal. While Tiger KingThey can grow large, sometimes over 20 feet and weigh focused on big cats, like lions and tigers, exotic animalsover 250 pounds. In search of something that flies? A are defined as any non-domesticated animal (i.e., not ahyacinth macaw might be just what you are looking for. housecat, dog breed, canary, gerbil, etc.). However, whatThese require a big enclosure, but have friendly, affec-is considered non-domesticated may vary from state totionate personalities.state. For example, Nevada has the loosest exotic petIt is no doubt exotic animals are trendy. Americans are laws, where animals such as tigers, non-human primates,attracted to the exclusivity and novelty of exotic pet own-elephants and wolves are legal to own without aership. But exotic pets are challenging. While some of permit. However, alligators, crocodiles, coy- these animals can be easy to care for compared to other otes, foxes and raccoons are not legal toregular pets, many have very specific diet, habitat and own in the state. grooming needs. There also may be permits required, or Nearly 70% of United Statesthey may not be legal. homes reported that theyOwning an exotic pet can offer an interesting experience. owned at least one pet, aThere are numerous benefits to purchasing an animal number that has been onthat may be a little more exclusive. However, the pur-a steady incline since thechase of an exotic animal should be a decision made with 1960s. With more familiesfull knowledge of the animal, its needs and your ability to owning pets, and more varietiescare for them. But, if the decision to welcome an exotic of domesticated animals thanpet is made with research and intention to love the animal ever before, why turn to exoticand provide it everything it needs to thrive, you and your animals? For many, the questionpet should expect a loving and happy life together.is not why, but why not?The appeal of owning an exotic animal is heightened by the noveltyJust avoid of the animal. Many have heard of bearded dragons, but very few the big cats. have heard of a fennec fox. Sonic Carole Baskin will not like it.the Hedgehog is popular and48'