LE PATIENT, CHEN!
WHY WILD ANIMALS AREN’T PETS CUTE BUT DANGEROUS
As the internet allows us a window into more and more people’s lives, influencers with exotic pets have increasingly captured our imaginations. From hedgehogs and foxes to big cats and sloths, it seems like someone out there has brought every type of animal under the sun into their homes. These influencers generally fall into one of two categories: licensed wildlife rehabilitation experts who rescue animals from fur farms or other money-making schemes, and ill-informed amateurs who buy through breeders or bring random animals indoors. Regarding the former, this is a clear case of “don’t try this at home,” while the latter group is generally making life worse for the animals they claim to love. Clients increasingly ask Dr. Clark about the possibility of owning animals like raccoons or skunks, because they look adorable. “Skunks are super cute,” Dr. Clark agrees, “but aside from the smell, keeping them as a pet is a disaster from a public health standpoint.” He points out that skunks are both illegal to own and the second-most common carrier of rabies in Montana (bats are No. 1) — and there is no approved rabies vaccination to give them. If someone is bitten, you could be held liable in both criminal and civil court. Additionally, Dr. Clark notes, “Many of these animals can carry intestinal parasites that cause very serious diseases in humans. Humans aren’t the intended hosts, so these parasites can wreak havoc on our bodies.” Some exotic pets may be technically legal to own, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to bring them into your home. For example, certain exotic cats are legal with a permit, but Dr. Clark doesn’t recommend them as pets. “People don’t know what they’re doing with these animals. They’re not domestic, and there’s a much steeper learning curve than people ever consider.”
days to come home. When Dad found me, he brought me inside to Mom,
and I’ll always remember how happy she looked when she saw I was back. Then when Mom got sick, I spent lots of time cuddling with her. She passed away eight years ago, and I miss her a lot.
I miss Wilson, too. We spent our whole lives together, but he died about two years ago. Dad used to call us “partners” because we always hung out and snuggled whenever we could.
Now it’s just me and Dad. We spend lots of time together, and I like to climb on his chest and rub my face against
his chin. I also like to sleep in the laundry basket with his dirty clothes, and when it’s really cold, I crawl under the blanket on the bed to keep nice and warm. I love meeting new people, and sometimes, just for fun, I like to run up and down the hall. I’ve had a lot of medical issues, so I’m really lucky Dad takes such good care of me. I see lots of Dr. Clark, who calls me his miracle cat. I don’t know if I’m a miracle, but I do know that I sure am lucky!
A charcuterie board blends communal party snacks with a touch of elegance, and this holiday season, your dog can partake in the fun.
Even if you’re convinced you can care for an exotic pet properly, that doesn’t mean you’ll find a veterinarian who can treat them. Veterinarians are generally not
(Note: This will also work for cats with some adjustments for their diet.)
trained in the biology and treatment of non- domesticated animals. Additionally, if the pet is illegal to own, Dr. Clark says, “We have to report you because it’s dangerous.”
1. Cut up all the ingredients. Don’t shy away from fun shapes! 2. On a flat board, arrange the largest treats along the outside. 3. Add peanut butter to a small bowl and place it in the center of the board. 4. Arrange the smaller snacks around the bowl, filling in any gaps. Directions
Your dreams of owning an unusual animal are better left in your head and on the internet. And if you do follow people with these animals online, do your best to make sure they’re licensed and reputable, not just a novice with a raccoon.
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