I was wondering what makes people pick exotic pets over more common ones like cats and dogs? Is it the challenge or something else?
For me, it’s personal. I have a woodchuck, and they’re sweet, loving animals. To them, I’m like their mom. They’re also very clean and even use a litterbox. I’m really glad to have one.
Nico said:
For me, it’s personal. I have a woodchuck, and they’re sweet, loving animals. To them, I’m like their mom. They’re also very clean and even use a litterbox. I’m really glad to have one.
Thanks for sharing. That’s really unique.
My partner is allergic to cats and dogs, so I had to think outside the box.
Arielle said:
My partner is allergic to cats and dogs, so I had to think outside the box.
What kind of pet did you get? 
Arielle said:
My partner is allergic to cats and dogs, so I had to think outside the box.
What kind of pet did you get?
I ended up getting an Old German Owl pigeon. I wanted something easy to care for, not smelly, relatively quiet, and affectionate. I’ve had mine for over a year now. He’s a boy, so he gets a bit moody sometimes, but he’s super cuddly. He wears little pigeon pants to catch poop and roams the house during the day. I put him in his cage at night.
Working from home helps a lot. He’s lower maintenance than cats or dogs, but he can have grumpy days, especially when I want to cuddle too much. Still, I love him.
@Arielle
That’s so cool. I’d never thought about a pigeon as a pet. How did you find out about them?
Barbara said:
@Arielle
That’s so cool. I’d never thought about a pigeon as a pet. How did you find out about them?
I stumbled on them while researching alternative pets. Turns out, pigeons as pets are more common than you’d think. There are Instagram accounts and even rescues like Palomacy or Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue. I got mine from a breeder nearby, but some rescues ship or have local options.
@Arielle
That’s interesting. I had no idea pigeons were such a thing. Thanks for sharing
I think it’s about the challenge of bonding with an animal that hasn’t been bred to be friendly. It’s a slower, more rewarding process. I also enjoy learning about their natural behavior and creating environments for them.
@Flint
That’s so interesting. When you got your rescues, did you get care instructions or have to figure it out yourself?
Barbara said:
@Flint
That’s so interesting. When you got your rescues, did you get care instructions or have to figure it out yourself?
Most of my rescues didn’t come with instructions. As soon as I know I might get an animal, I research everything I can to make sure I’m ready and have everything they need.
@Flint
That’s great you do so much research. I bet they’re in much better hands with you now