TYPES OF EXOTIC ANIMALS THAT
Make Great Pets
Are you thinking about adding a pet to your family? It may surprise you how many different kinds of animals could make the perfect pet companion. To give you an idea about your options and to learn what exotic pets are legal in Florida, keep reading!
What Are The Different Animal Groups?
The six main animal groups are:
- Invertebrates: Invertebrates account for 97 percent of all species on earth. Dating back to millions of years ago, they are among the most basic and low-maintenance pets you can find. Insects, for instance, like lady or pill bugs can be a fun first “pet” for young children.
- Fish: Fish are more than 500 million years old. They can be beautiful, fun and easy-to-care-for pets to have in your home.
- Amphibians: Most amphibians are semi-aquatic, meaning they like water in their habitat. These types of animals include frogs, toads and salamanders.
- Reptiles: These types of animals date back to the days of the dinosaurs. Turtles, snakes and lizards are all examples of potential reptilian pets.
- Birds: Birds are the fish of the sky. With more than 10,000 species on the planet, the pet bird options you have to choose from are vast.
- Mammals: As you may know already, humans are mammals. Pets like cats, dogs, guinea pigs and hamsters are all mammals that make for excellent pets.
What Exotic Pets Are Legal In Florida?
Are you interested in becoming the owner of an exotic animal? Well, you’re in luck. The state of Florida recognizes some exciting and interesting types of animals as legal pets. These pets include bats, deer, New Guinea singing dogs, Asian leopard cats, marmosets, foxes, squirrels, skunks, raccoons and — get ready for this one — sloths!*
If you’ve ever dreamed about owning and loving your very own squirrel, skunk or sloth and you live in Florida, you can make that dream come true with the right knowledge, training, tools and property.
Caring For Different Types Of Exotic Animals
While owning an exotic animal will require extra learning and researching about how to care for exotic pets, it can be incredibly rewarding. To become an owner of any of the animals listed above, you must first apply for a permit. For a class 3 permit, you must answer questions about the animals you intend to own and how you plan to take care of them.
Many online resources help you prepare for this step toward becoming an exotic pet owner. We’re also here to help in any way we can. If you already own an exotic pet, cat or dog and suspect a health issue, schedule an appointment at University Animal Clinic right away.
Interested In Adding An Exotic Pet To Your Family?
University Animal Clinic specializes in providing exotic pet care and veterinary services for all types of exotic pets. Call us today at (941) 253-5218 or contact us online. We’re here to answer any questions you may have. To speak with a veterinarian in person, please visit our office located in Bradenton, Florida.
*Though they are legal in the state of Florida, University Animal Clinic does not offer exotic pet services at this time for bats, raccoons, squirrels or skunks to protect the safety of our staff and other animals from Rabies, which is commonly carried by these animals.
