subject: Three Unique And Unusual Pets [print this page] Sometimes you would need to see beyond the usual choices if you want to get a great pet. Dogs and cats may still be the most popular and conventional choices, but there are other animals that could make great pets as well.
Having the right reasons to buy a pet is important before buying one. Having the right reasons is very essential. To use an example, buying a turtle won't be the best way to go if you need an animal companion around the house. But for parents who want to get a nice first pet for their children to teach them responsibility, a turtle would be perfect. You may want to consider these other pets as useful, though unusual alternatives.
There are those who are put off by the fact that hamsters, gerbils and mice are rodents, but they can actually be very good pets if you come to think about it. These rodents aren't space-eaters and since they don't eat too much, they are easy to care for and feed. But don't get too attached to them as these rodents, may they be hamsters, mice or gerbils, don't have the longest life span compared to most other pets. Despite the fact that they are small, rodents need regular care. Beware of nasty odors if your rodent cage isn't cared for properly.
Hermit crabs, believe it or not, just may be another good idea if you're buying a new pet. Though a hermit crab is neither cuddly nor friendly, it does have some distinct advantages. A hermit crab does interesting things like burrowing and changing shells, so those with children may be fascinated. Hermit crabs drink from a sponge, so the only care needed would be to make sure their sponges stay wet.
Last, but not least are prairie dogs - a lot of pet owners have found out that they can make great pets too. Thanks to their pleasant nature and curious disposition, prairie dogs can be great around the house. Prairie dogs raised in captivity usually do not make any efforts to escape. Prairie dogs can run free around the house, though they can also be litter box trained for convenience. We must warn you, though, that prairie dogs like to chew. Prairie dogs need to be trained properly so that they only chew on designated objects, instead of damaging your house property and clothing. Since they are wild animals in the truest sense, make sure to buy them only from a trusted source.
These are just three choices for unusual and/or exotic pets. While it is still okay to go for cats and dogs, they aren't the only pets out there.
