The Risks of Exotic Pet Ownership

Statistics show that dogs and cats are the most popular pets in the US; however, they are not everyone’s preferred animals. Some people prefer less common pets such as birds, rodents, or reptiles. A few people even seek out so-called “exotic pets,” which include rare animals such as large cats, primates, and venomous snakes and lizards.

The decision to purchase or adopt an exotic pet should never be made lightly. While many of these animals are beautiful and interesting, keeping them as pets is dangerous to them, to their owners, and to the rest of the community. If you have been harmed by a poorly supervised or restrained pet, call Orlando pet owner liability attorney Todd Miner at 407-420-4040 to discuss your options.

Reasons to Choose Conventional Pets

While some people with specialized skills and training are capable of caring for non-domesticated animals, it is not recommended for the average person. Potential hazards of bringing an exotic animal into your home include:

• Unknown variables – The exotic pet trade is largely unsupervised by the government; many of these animals are even brought into the country illegally. Even if you purchase your pet from a reputable dealer, its past is likely to be an unknown factor. This means your new pet could have medical conditions, past exposure to dangerous illnesses, or behavioral problems that you do not know about.
• Lack of domestication – Dogs, cats, and some other species have enjoyed mutually beneficial relationships with humans for thousands of years. This means that they are used to our presence and are generally able to get along with people. Undomesticated animals do not have this history with humans. This makes them difficult or impossible to train, and highly unpredictable.
• The spread of illness – There are many viruses and bacteria that can be spread between humans and other animals, particularly primates. When you buy or adopt an animal with an unknown past, you could be unknowingly expose yourself and your neighbors to Herpes B, Salmonella, and monkeypox, which is a painful disease related to smallpox.

Under the law, pet owners are liable for injuries and property damage inflicted by their pets. Before you purchase or adopt an exotic animal, think long and carefully about the associated medical, financial, and legal risks.

Contact an Orlando Animal Attack Lawyer

If you have been harmed by a negligent pet owner, you could be able to win compensation for medical bills, missed work, pain and suffering, and more. Contact Orlando pet liability attorney Todd Miner at 407-420-4040.