The following is a list of nontraditional pets for those who want something other than a cat or dog. Remember, exotic pets are not for everyone. Contact your veterinarian and/or a local zoo before purchasing any exotic species.

• Domesticated rodents like guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, chinchillas, mice and rats
• Domesticated rabbits
• Captive-reared birds like budgies (parakeets), cockatiels, small parrots, canaries, finches and domesticated doves
• Pigeons, ducks and geese
• Captive-bred exotic birds like large parrots
• Tropical fish
• Ferrets
• Hedgehogs
• Selected species of reptiles (preferably captive-reared), avoiding large constrictors, poisonous species and members of: the crocodilian family; selective captive-reared amphibians and selected species of invertebrates.

Most other wild or exotic species should not be considered as pets.