We all love animals; some people’s love extends beyond the norm regarding unusual pets. Here are some more rare pets and facts about them.
Raccoons: Raccoons are animals that are generally not recommended to be kept as pets, as it is only legal in 16 states. Owning a raccoon will probably be more trouble than enjoyment for both the owner and the raccoon, as raccoons are wild animals, so the results of being a house pet wouldn’t be good. Since raccoons aren’t used to being around humans, they can be aggressive and could result in biting. Raccoons can also carry rabies, and there is no approved vaccination for it. Rabies, along with the aggression they already carry, is not a good mix. They can also carry Salmonella and leptospirosis. Baylisascariasis is caused by roundworms that come from raccoons and can be deadly to people. Raccoons need to be kept in a spacious environment to roam freely. You will also need to childproof your home. They need toys and things to climb on. They eat meat and plants. They dip their food in water before eating, so make sure to provide that.
Sugar Glider: Sugar gliders would be a good pet to have if you are looking for something small. That has a long lifespan and enjoys playing around. Sugar gliders, unlike raccoons, are friendly and calm around humans. Before buying one, make sure to check if they are legal in your state. You might need a permit to take ownership of one. Sugar gliders are nocturnal creatures, which means they sleep during the day and are awake at night. It could affect the way of your day-to-day life, having to go around the sleep schedule. Sugar gliders are social creatures, which means they need to spend a lot of time with their owners. They eat a combination of fruits and vegetables, protein, and specialized palletized food. Sugar gliders are also quite clean; they clean themselves and don’t need to be bathed. They usually live for 10 to 15 years.
Hedgehog: If you are considering owning a hedgehog, keep in mind that it is not ideal to have a hedgehog around small children. They require a clean and comfortable environment. It is usually recommended for them to live alone, but it is okay to keep two females living together. They usually live for around 5 to 8 years and require at least a 2 x 3 floor space. Something to keep in mind is that hedgehogs are shy animals, and many use the prickly quills along their backs to protect themselves if they ever feel the need. You have to be careful when handling them; use a small towel to not prick yourself when handling them. You should also have a daily scheduled time outside of the cage to help them get used to you. Hedgehogs eat insects, plants, and sometimes snails and worms.
All in all, before buying a rare pet look into what you need to care for them properly and look for the best fit for you.