Sometimes it isn’t practical for certain people to keep a dog or a cat. Here are five suggestions for alternative pets that can be just as rewarding!
Bearded dragons
Bearded dragons have a gentle nature and make great pets. The name comes from the rough spiny skin under their throats, which can look like a beard. Bearded dragons are desert animals, so require a warm, dry habitat, and eat a mixed diet of live insects (such as crickets or wood roaches, available in-store at Petbarn) and vegetables. They can be handled, but require some extra care to ensure handlers’ hands are clean before touching the reptile. Handlers’ hands should be thoroughly cleaned after petting, also. As with turtles, remember to check for licensing conditions in your state before welcoming a bearded dragon into your home. For a bearded dragon’s special requirements, Petbarn has you covered.
Turtles
Some of the most unique and unconventional pets available for families are turtles. They’re interesting pets that can teach children (and adults too!) about more uncommon types of animals. Caring for turtles is relatively easy, although they require more complex equipment and have specific dietary needs to be met. They can also live for a long time, and generally grow significantly over a lifetime. In most states, you must hold a license from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (e.g., in NSW) to keep a turtle, and in some states (e.g., WA and it is entirely banned. Check the licensing for your state before thinking about getting a turtle. Petbarn has a range of products just for pet turtles.
Stick insects
If you’re short on space and fascinated by creepy-crawlies, then a stick insect could be the pet for you. They’re unique insects that occur on every continent except Antarctica, so there are some native species to choose from. Stick insects rely on camouflage to protect themselves from predators, so their body and legs are elongated to mimic a stick or straw. There are lots of different types available, depending on whether you want an easy-to-care-for pet, or something that’s more of a challenge. Stick insects live for about 18 months, are kept in terrariums, they moult hanging upside-down, and each species has specific temperature and humidity requirements, so be sure to speak to your local Petbarn store before purchasing your equipment.
Ferrets
If you’re looking for a cuddly companion that’s still on the unusual side, why not try a ferret. Ferrets are wonderfully inquisitive and intelligent, and they make wonderful pets. They can be nippy if not trained correctly, so be sure to ask your breeder whether they nip-train their ferrets, and always ensure children are carefully supervised. If you’re looking for a ferret, be mindful that it’s illegal to keep ferrets in Queensland or the Northern Territory, and that if you live in the ACT, a special license is required.
Frogs
Who’s your favourite Muppet? If it’s Kermit, then frogs could be your unusual pet of choice! Australia has a unique population of tadpoles and frogs, but only a small amount of these are able to be kept as pets, and a license is required in order to keep some of the rarer species as pets. Frogs are kept in enclosures, and a number of breeds are available to purchase from the Australian Amphibian Research Centre. You can purchase tadpoles and frogs at all stages, depending on what kind of pet you’re after.