Alright so I have been thinking a lot lately and when I move out of my moms place I want to get a pet. Now I want a unique pet, but without using the word easy (no pets are “easy”) but something that I can have time for while also having a job in the future. I just don’t want to get a pet that needs LOTS of upkeep when I’m gonna be out a lot working.
So basically what I’m asking is any suggestions for pets? They don’t have to be Extremely unique but I don’t just want a dog or something, I love dogs don’t get me wrong but I need a break from them, I have lived my life with 3 of them.
So basically what I’m asking is any suggestions for pets? They don’t have to be Extremely unique but I don’t just want a dog or something, I love dogs don’t get me wrong but I need a break from them, I have lived my life with 3 of them.
GET A TORTOISE!
We have one and they are really low maintenance. They live for 100+ years so you can have them all your life, boom, and you just have to remember to feed them once or twice a day and refill their water when it's gone. My dad changes her bedding once or twice a month. So voila!
We have one and they are really low maintenance. They live for 100+ years so you can have them all your life, boom, and you just have to remember to feed them once or twice a day and refill their water when it's gone. My dad changes her bedding once or twice a month. So voila!
Get an alligator!
Buy them when they are babies, they only grow as big as their cage so don't worry about having a huge alligator in your home. When I was little we had one in my house and we fed it chicken. It may lunge at you a lot but its a pretty cool and unique pet to have
Buy them when they are babies, they only grow as big as their cage so don't worry about having a huge alligator in your home. When I was little we had one in my house and we fed it chicken. It may lunge at you a lot but its a pretty cool and unique pet to have
tarantula. if you're going to be super busy, want something unique and don't want to have to spend a super a lot of time with, tarantula is the way to go. Or maybe an aquarium. What ever you do, do not get a social pet let a bird. Birds take an immense amount of time and attention. Or a snake or tortoise, preferably a snake that doesn't grow to huge. (I live in a state where we are currently having our ecosystem decimated by snakes and lizards that got too big by people who wanted "unique" pets and then was no longer able to take care of them)
May I suggest a puma, potbelly pig, or a fox?
I have a friend with a pig, I knew somebody with a puma, and I'm getting a fox in the future, heh. Wolves and wolf-dogs, too, are really unique. They may seem like a dog, but they're massive and crazy energetic (and work wonders for spooking your neighbors)
Another good suggestion are peacocks, although only if you have a yard and don't expect too many visitors. They're like guards.
I have a friend with a pig, I knew somebody with a puma, and I'm getting a fox in the future, heh. Wolves and wolf-dogs, too, are really unique. They may seem like a dog, but they're massive and crazy energetic (and work wonders for spooking your neighbors)
Another good suggestion are peacocks, although only if you have a yard and don't expect too many visitors. They're like guards.
I would definitely suggest some kind of reptile or invertebrate. You can handle them if you feel like it, but they don't require social interaction with you to thrive and are perfectly fine being left to their own devices. I would warn against larger species, though (tegus, reticulated pythons, alligators, those sorts). Another drawback is that a lot of herps/inverts require live insects to eat and those are annoying to keep.
I've had a leopard gecko for a while now. Not the most exciting pet, but hit me up if you want to know anything about their husbandry.
I've had a leopard gecko for a while now. Not the most exciting pet, but hit me up if you want to know anything about their husbandry.
H'okay. So I have a Chinese Water Dragon. I do not recommend a Chinese Water Dragon. I love her to bits, but they require a lot of space despite their size, are especially prone to parasitic worms, and it's scary when I go to the vet and he's amazed to see a water dragon that hasn't complete smashed its own face in.
If you do want to go for a reptile, I'd suggest a bearded dragon, certain geckos, or a russian tortoise. I actually don't recommend a snake; even though many snakes are relatively easy to care for, they can make it very difficult to find housing for yourself, just because of bias against them (that has even been written into law in some cases).
Tortoises actually have a lot more personality than people think, and russian tortoises remain relatively small and won't require quite as much electricity to keep healthy as some. Just be aware, the males tend to be little buttheads, especially if they think it's mating season. (Note: Most tortoise species do not live to 100, but they do have a solid few decades.)
Some geckoes similarly don't have a lot of needs for temperature. Their diets tend to be pretty easy, too. Be aware, they often do not like to be handled, and stress absolutely can kill a reptile.
Bearded dragons need plenty heat, but as desert lizards, you don't have to figure out how to keep things humid (but you have to keep it decently dry). For their small size, they're also brilliant little buggers if you want to train them. As omnivores, they're usually easy to feed, but you need to make sure they get a decent variety.
I am also in favor of pot-bellies pigs (my family had one), but keep the term "pig-headed" in mind. They're sweethearts, but if they form a habit, woe unto any who would try to change it. This can include things like being in their seat to watch their TV show at the specific time they know it's on. Be aware that teacup pigs, though (as well as other miniature animals) are extra prone to a lot of health problems.
Whatever you get, before you get it, be sure to dive deep into research for the proper care of that animal. All reptiles have their own specific needs. All invertebrates have their own specific needs. All fish have their own specific needs. Etc.
What temperature range do they need? Will they have issues if they don't get access to full-spectrum lighting? What is their diet, and what is toxic to them? (Just because you can eat it doesn't mean they can! Chocolate is toxic to dogs, lots of veggies are actually toxic to different reptiles, lots of bugs are just generally toxic....) How much space do they need? Do they need to be able to go outside, or will they actually created problems if they go outside? If they need an enclosure, what materials can and can't you use? (A lot of materials, including some woods, are toxic to reptiles. Sulcata tortoises, which I don't recommend here anyway, can dig through concrete.)
Also keep in mind that animal expressions are not like ours. Often, owners will unintentionally abuse their pets because they think a reaction is cute or mistake it for enjoyment. This seems especially common with reptile owners, who tend to not understand that closing eyes is a stress response, as is flailing, as is head bobbing; and who don't understand that reptiles do not have "cuddle" hormones, and only engage in such behavior for warmth or to seek out a hiding place. So look up what various behaviors mean, too!
If you do want to go for a reptile, I'd suggest a bearded dragon, certain geckos, or a russian tortoise. I actually don't recommend a snake; even though many snakes are relatively easy to care for, they can make it very difficult to find housing for yourself, just because of bias against them (that has even been written into law in some cases).
Tortoises actually have a lot more personality than people think, and russian tortoises remain relatively small and won't require quite as much electricity to keep healthy as some. Just be aware, the males tend to be little buttheads, especially if they think it's mating season. (Note: Most tortoise species do not live to 100, but they do have a solid few decades.)
Some geckoes similarly don't have a lot of needs for temperature. Their diets tend to be pretty easy, too. Be aware, they often do not like to be handled, and stress absolutely can kill a reptile.
Bearded dragons need plenty heat, but as desert lizards, you don't have to figure out how to keep things humid (but you have to keep it decently dry). For their small size, they're also brilliant little buggers if you want to train them. As omnivores, they're usually easy to feed, but you need to make sure they get a decent variety.
I am also in favor of pot-bellies pigs (my family had one), but keep the term "pig-headed" in mind. They're sweethearts, but if they form a habit, woe unto any who would try to change it. This can include things like being in their seat to watch their TV show at the specific time they know it's on. Be aware that teacup pigs, though (as well as other miniature animals) are extra prone to a lot of health problems.
Whatever you get, before you get it, be sure to dive deep into research for the proper care of that animal. All reptiles have their own specific needs. All invertebrates have their own specific needs. All fish have their own specific needs. Etc.
What temperature range do they need? Will they have issues if they don't get access to full-spectrum lighting? What is their diet, and what is toxic to them? (Just because you can eat it doesn't mean they can! Chocolate is toxic to dogs, lots of veggies are actually toxic to different reptiles, lots of bugs are just generally toxic....) How much space do they need? Do they need to be able to go outside, or will they actually created problems if they go outside? If they need an enclosure, what materials can and can't you use? (A lot of materials, including some woods, are toxic to reptiles. Sulcata tortoises, which I don't recommend here anyway, can dig through concrete.)
Also keep in mind that animal expressions are not like ours. Often, owners will unintentionally abuse their pets because they think a reaction is cute or mistake it for enjoyment. This seems especially common with reptile owners, who tend to not understand that closing eyes is a stress response, as is flailing, as is head bobbing; and who don't understand that reptiles do not have "cuddle" hormones, and only engage in such behavior for warmth or to seek out a hiding place. So look up what various behaviors mean, too!
Just a side note, if you're thinking of getting a *very exotic* pet be sure to check the laws where you live first.
For example, I love skunks dearly, however it is against the law where I live to have a skunk as a pet. Thus I admire them from very (very) far away.
For example, I love skunks dearly, however it is against the law where I live to have a skunk as a pet. Thus I admire them from very (very) far away.
Hedgehogs are the best 
I had one for about 4 1/2 years, and he was super easy.
PROS: They're really personable once they're comfortable with you. They love to play. They're pretty easy, and can be litter trained. They're super cute. They're becoming more popular so it's easier to find things for them...food for instance. Owners used to feed them high quality cat food, but in recent years the quality of actual hedgehog food has gotten a lot better.
CONS: Lifespan of 4-6 years and prone to heart disease. For self-defense they roll into a ball and their quills come up, it does hurt a bit but they're soft when relaxed. They require a temperature of around 75 degrees..if they get too cold they could go into hibernation and will die.
Heres a pic of my hedgie!
I had one for about 4 1/2 years, and he was super easy.PROS: They're really personable once they're comfortable with you. They love to play. They're pretty easy, and can be litter trained. They're super cute. They're becoming more popular so it's easier to find things for them...food for instance. Owners used to feed them high quality cat food, but in recent years the quality of actual hedgehog food has gotten a lot better.
CONS: Lifespan of 4-6 years and prone to heart disease. For self-defense they roll into a ball and their quills come up, it does hurt a bit but they're soft when relaxed. They require a temperature of around 75 degrees..if they get too cold they could go into hibernation and will die.
Heres a pic of my hedgie!
I've gotta comment on what Nova said, unfortunately Bearded Dragons are a lot more needy than you'd believe, despite the fact they're reptiles. Males get very lonely if not given love or socialized with other beardies, and if not handled enough, females in particular can get very wild and aggressive.
Their upkeep is also quite expensive, especially to keep them healthy, just buying their setup in general is pretty hefty, and the electric bill is going to be a lot higher with a beardie, as they need a LOT of heat. Also buying them and feeding them the correct food every week can become a frustration. They're also prone to infections, parasites and illnesses, especially if not given the proper nutrition.
Not to say they're bad pets, I just would not recommend them for new reptile owners unless you're willing to put in the time and energy. They're fabulous pets with personality, and if treated well, can bond and have a really special relationship with you. My bearded dragon was a darling, and I miss him dearly.
Chinchilla's are also a cute and unique pet, although they too can be a bit higher maintenance, although they don't require too much socializing or handling, as they're typically rather shy. They are however very prone to heatstroke, same as rabbits, so if you live in a hot or humid area and can't afford to keep your house cooler for them, I would not suggest getting one.
Some types of fresh water fish such as betas or tetra fish are lower maintenance but really fun to have. You can also put many different kinds of fish together, I have a beta who is very happily living with a few tetras. Although just be sure about what fish are ok together and what aren't. I'm considering adding a water frog to the tank as well. It's also less likely for places you may live to ban fish.
However whatever pet you choose, make sure to do all the proper research, don't take anything any of us say for granted. We're simply making suggestions based off of our limited knowledge, it's your job to always always do the research.
Their upkeep is also quite expensive, especially to keep them healthy, just buying their setup in general is pretty hefty, and the electric bill is going to be a lot higher with a beardie, as they need a LOT of heat. Also buying them and feeding them the correct food every week can become a frustration. They're also prone to infections, parasites and illnesses, especially if not given the proper nutrition.
Not to say they're bad pets, I just would not recommend them for new reptile owners unless you're willing to put in the time and energy. They're fabulous pets with personality, and if treated well, can bond and have a really special relationship with you. My bearded dragon was a darling, and I miss him dearly.
Chinchilla's are also a cute and unique pet, although they too can be a bit higher maintenance, although they don't require too much socializing or handling, as they're typically rather shy. They are however very prone to heatstroke, same as rabbits, so if you live in a hot or humid area and can't afford to keep your house cooler for them, I would not suggest getting one.
Some types of fresh water fish such as betas or tetra fish are lower maintenance but really fun to have. You can also put many different kinds of fish together, I have a beta who is very happily living with a few tetras. Although just be sure about what fish are ok together and what aren't. I'm considering adding a water frog to the tank as well. It's also less likely for places you may live to ban fish.
However whatever pet you choose, make sure to do all the proper research, don't take anything any of us say for granted. We're simply making suggestions based off of our limited knowledge, it's your job to always always do the research.
I have a Kenyan sand boa, and she is a darling. Mistress Bitesalot is the chillest pet I've ever owned, she usually stays under her substrate 23.5 hours out of the day, so I don't see her until I take her out. As far as attention goes, she seems to enjoy resting on my shoulders or inside of a blanket for about 30-60 minutes, then she's ready to go back into her tank. She's handled often, but not too often, and (despite her name) has never bitten anyone. My five-year-old likes to take her for walks through town, and by walks I mean carrying her around inside of her hoodie. She eats live mice about twice a month. Super simple to take care of, and inexpensive after initial setup!
iolhantheX wrote:
I've gotta comment on what Nova said, unfortunately Bearded Dragons are a lot more needy than you'd believe[...]
I've come across plenty folks who have done lovely with beardies as a first or early pet, though. It's just a matter of making the commitment, which... should be a thing with any pet.
And myself, personally? If I had gotten a proper "beginner" pet, like one of the easier geckos, I might just have forgotten about the poor thing. >.< I need something I can interact with without risking it dying from stress at being handled. (I mean, my ball python was considered a beginner pet, but chubby puppy-face snake that coils on me... Of course I'll love all over that.)
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