SPCA New Zealand

Ready to welcome a new furry family member? Take advantage of 25% off adoption fees 13-28 April only. Help us Clear the Shelters these school holidays!

Start your journey together
Animal Advocacy

Position Statements

Non-traditional Species (Exotic Animals) as Companion Animals

SPCA advocates that non-traditional species are not suitable to be kept as companion animals because it is difficult to provide them with a Good Life where they experience positive welfare and their physical, health and behavioural needs are met.

Non-traditional species do not make suitable companion animals because, in most cases, their welfare needs cannot be met in captivity. Non-traditional species routinely suffer from malnutrition, inadequate husbandry, insufficient companionship, poor environmental enrichment, and lack of appropriate veterinary care when they are kept in domestic situations.

Hello! Choose your nearest SPCA Centre and see content specific to your location:
Hit enter to submit