Owning an exotic animal in Arizona has some pretty strict requirements, but if you’re willing to jump through a few hoops, you could find yourself the proud owner of a python, sugar glider, or even a capybara. Here are five exotic animals that you can legally own as pets in Arizona:
1. Pythons
One of the most popular exotic pets in Arizona is the python. These types of snakes can grow quite large, so you must ensure you have enough space to provide a proper home for your pet. Pythons also require a special diet and need to be fed live prey. Ensure to do your research before bringing one of these slithering reptiles home.
Also, if you go out of town for work or vacation, you may have to take them to a pet boarding facility — a home away from home for your pet.
2. Sugar Gliders
These small marsupial animals are native to Australia and make great pets for those looking for something a little different. Sugar gliders are nocturnal creatures and love to play. Also, they are very social animals and do best when kept in pairs or groups.
Before bringing a sugar glider home, you must obtain a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. You also need to provide a proper cage for your new pet — one large enough for them to play comfortably and move around.
The best thing about these animals is that they don’t need any vaccines, unlike the traditional pets that require a dog and cat vaccination.
3. Capybara
Capybaras are the world’s largest rodents and are a popular pet choice for those looking for an exotic animal companion. Native to South America, these animals can grow to be up to four feet long and weigh up to 170 pounds.
Capybaras are very social animals and do best when kept with other animals of their kind. Much space to run and play is also necessary, so you need to have a large backyard or enclosure for them.
Like sugar gliders, you need to obtain a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department before you can bring a capybara home.
4. Kangaroo
You can own a kangaroo in Arizona, but you need an Arizona Game and Fish Department permit. Their lifespan can be up to 25 years, so this is a long-term commitment. Their diet consists of grass and leaves, so you must ensure a steady food supply for your pet.
Kangaroos are also very active animals and need ample space to run and play. They require special care and handling, so be sure to do your research before bringing one home (why not follow this link for more info).
5. Wallabies
The wallaby is a small marsupial that is native to Australia. These animals make great pets for those looking for something a little different but can be expensive. Wallabies are social creatures and do best when kept in pairs or groups.
Before bringing one home, you need to obtain a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Wallabies also require a lot of space to run and play, so you need a large backyard or enclosure for your pet.
Final Words
These are just five exotic animals you can legally own as pets in Arizona. Be sure to research before bringing one home, as they require special care and handling. Also, look for a reputable vet clinic near you that provides care for these types of pets.
