Odd Pets in America

02/08/2010

For some people, a domestic dog, cat or hamster just isn't enough.  They crave more exotic animals for their pets.  And it's surprisingly easy for private citizens in the United States to acquire as pets such animals as big cats, bears, chimpanzees, venomous snakes and many other species that could seriously harm or even kill a human.

Recently, British photographer David White visited the United States and explored this phenomenon.  His photos are striking and somewhat disturbing in light of recent tragedies involving undomesticated species that have been kept as pets.

What do you think about keeping such animals as pets? Should it be allowed?

Photo: David White/Barcroft Media via Telegraph UK.

 

Comments

[marv]

I think it should be allowed IF the owner passes some kind of veterinary education/licensing to demonstrate knowledge of the proper care of that particular species AND they agree to take care of the animal until the end of its life AND they can demonstrate they have the proper facilities to keep the animal safe and also the general public safe from the animal AND they can demonstrate they have the financial wherewithal to do all of the above.

[pandora jewels]

Haha also quite daring owner if I have a big monster in the side just like the words is quite worried
Both for themselves or the people around himhttp://www.panbeadssales.com/

[avandia lawsuit]

I would love Love LOVE to have a big cat! I have a two little guys that act more like dogs!

[Deaddoc]

I think it's very narcissistic for someone to think that they deserve and have the right to take a wild animal and keep it in their backyard. Majority of them use them to fill a void in their lives caused by some previous trauma and loneliness. I believe it should be illegal to own them and/or breed them period. There are more tigers in Texas then there are in the wild! That's sick and wrong.

[Alltek Bee Removal]

I don't think it should be allowed. These are wild animals who should be left in their natural habitats. You can never tame a wild animal.

[Jenny]

Wild animals belong in the wild. There are more lions and tigers in peoples homes then in the wild...now tell me how is that right?

[Holly]

They just get killed in the wild by humans so why can't we keep them as pets if we love them so much as to put our own lives at risk to keep one safe I think as long as you don't neglect it is fine.

[Pooka]

I agree with Marv. But also, not just taking the animal out of the wild. Perhaps if it was a cub or pup left from a zoo or rescued from another situation. Regardless, they need to study the species and take a veterinary exam.

[Paleo Recipe Book]

It's kind of odd seeing this giant cat on a sofa. I know he should be roaming free. It's a grey area but I lean towards a big no!

[MuNcHiEzDaKlOwN]

i think its fine to own and keep such animals but i despise people blaming the animal who mauled or killed the keeper. its called common sense

[Jura Capresso Reviews]

In a weird way I'm jealous. I always wanted a wolf or lion for a pet but I don't think I could ever really trust them.

[panic attacks]

It just looks scary looking at this picture. She better feed her at right time.

[colorado mortgage brokers]

Wow! She is a nut!

[Paleo Diet Recipes]

I'm more of a dog person. I want a pet wolf too. Plus this lion would break my old couch.

[Revive Her Drive]

I love cats but I don't think I could handle a lion...maybe a lynx!! Great photo!