Exotic animals — lions, tigers, wolves, bears, reptiles, non-human primates — belong in their natural habitats and not in the hands of private individuals as “pets.”
By their very nature, these animals are wild and potentially dangerous and, as such, do not adjust well to a captive environment.
What Actions Can you Take To Avoid Their Trade?
You can do several things to help stop private possession of exotic animals:
- For the animals’ sake and for your health and safety, please do not buy exotic animals as “pets.”
- If you observe an exotic animal being abused, living in deplorable conditions, etc., report it to the appropriate animal control agency.
- Educate others. Write a Letter to the Editor. Share this fact sheet with friends and family.
- Support legislation at all levels to prohibit private possession of exotic animals.
- Find out how your country regulates private possession of exotic animals. If your country does not prohibit private possession, contact your representatives and urge them to introduce legislation banning possession of exotic animals.
