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While cats, dogs, fish, and birds might be what one thinks of when the word “pet” is mentioned in conversation, in reality the pet realm is much larger and includes many different types of exotic species.

If you surf Instagram you can find picture-perfect examples of happy snakes, lizards, tortoises, rabbits, hedgehogs, tarantulas and more. However many of the species aren’t common because extra care needs to be taken in order to give these animals a good home. In fact, most experts in the field note that exotic pets have to be re-homed more often than kitties and puppies.

Here are some things to consider before you commit to an exotic pet.

Is it legal to have the pet in the place I’m living?

We aren’t even talking about the nuanced part of whether or not your landlord allows this particular breed of animal. State governments across the United States have their own rules about what is and isn’t a pet, and Montana is no different.

Case in point, one of the most common reptile pets for children, the red-eared slider, was banned in our home state of Montana in 2014.

Among the other banned exotics in this state? African clawed frogs, North American bullfrog and dozens more. Check with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks if you have any doubt about which animals you can or cannot have in this state.

Am I going to be able to feed this critter?

Tarantulas eat crickets and other bugs. Snakes? Their diet consists of mice. So if you are squeamish about the circle of life and seeing your new baby chow down on something alive, you should maybe reconsider a scaled or eight-legged friend. Also, check and see what the food supply is like in different parts of the year. You might be able to feed your frog grasshoppers from your summer garden, but bugs are going to be hard to come by in Montana winter. Make sure the local pet store can get you some.

What happens if my buddy outlives me?

While it’s likely that you are going to outlast your cat or dog, monkeys, birds and tortoises can live three to five decades. Many pet owners carve out what they want to happen to their pets in their will to deal with this reality.

Is my home a good fit for this new pet?

A cockatiel might not be the best of bedfellows as a preying house cat. A running rabbit might not be a perfect match for a herding dog. In fact, these sound like potentially deadly matches. Be thoughtful before your bring your pal home.

Is there a vet nearby that can care for my animal?

Source: www.natgeo.com — *Source:* *www.natgeo.com*

Believe it or not you are more likely to find vets specializing in horses and cows in Montana than in hedgehogs. So if you want to bring Sonic home, check and make sure your vet has some idea of how to care for him before an emergency arises. There are few worse feelings to be had than being unable to get your critter care as it suffers.

Can I provide the right kind of enclosure and care?

Reptiles need heat lamps. Birds might need a huge cage or a small one, depending on species. Are you a busy person? A social sugar glider or parrot might not be the best match for someone working 60 hours per week, but a tortoise might.

Will this animal make me sick?

Do you have a weak immune system? Some species of reptiles carry salmonella. Bird feces can also carry germs that cause pulmonary issues in humans. Research your critter’s potential to get you sick.

Exotics can make an exceptional, loved addition to the family, but they do often require extra are and planning. Here at Garden City Pets we see quite a few non-traditional pets and are honored to care for them. If you need care for your exotic pet in Missoula, Montana, be sure to give us a call!

Things to Consider Before Adopting an Exotic Pet