People Share Experiences With Their Unusual Pets, And They Are Extremely Interesting
We all love our pets, but people have different preferences when choosing the best possible companions. There is no denying that cats and dogs are most popular by far, but there are many animals out there that could be ideal pets, but they simply never crossed your mind.
Some people like frogs, some love alpacas, but the most unusual pets are rats, millipedes, and flesh-eating beetles. People shared their unusual pets and their experiences with them, and we have selected the most interesting ones.
Take a look at the list we have prepared for you. You might get an idea for your next pet.
1. Chickens
```html"Chickens are incredibly engaging pets. I have a flock of five hens that I raised from chicks, and they bring so much joy and laughter into my life. I never thought I would enjoy having birds, but these girls have changed my perspective!"
— Dr. Michael Thompson, child psychologist
"Having chickens has been a delightful experience for me. They are low-maintenance, provide fresh eggs, and are surprisingly intelligent. I've even taught them tricks! If you're considering an unusual pet, I wholeheartedly recommend chickens!"
— Dr. Pepper Schwartz, sociologist
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2. Civets
"People thought it was very unusual that we were raising them! They were incredibly cute, almost reminiscent of cats in certain ways! They had a diet of meat and fish, and once they grew large enough, we released them back into the wild, but one of them kept returning to visit us... I would wake up to find the little guy sleeping, curled up on my bed!" said a pet owner. According to Dr. Ian Kerner, a renowned sex therapist, "The bond between humans and animals can be profound and often leads to unexpected emotional connections." For more insights, visit Dr. Ian Kerner's website.
3. Chinchillas
"I have a chinchilla called Ru (after the drag queen, of course). He is the best decision I’ve ever made! I had him because I had terrible anxiety and he kept me so distracted I’ve gone from having panic attacks every day to pretty much zero! He’s the cuddliest and most cheeky thing. He also throws his poo at my brother because he (Ru) doesn’t like him, so bonus!"
— Dr. Kelly Brogan, psychiatrist
"I have a chinchilla named Dorothea and honestly she's so freaking sweet and chill."
4. Giant African land snails
```html"I have three beautiful giant African land snails. They are not only fascinating but also surprisingly affectionate. Some might find them unappealing, but they can be wonderful companions," says Gretchen Rubin, happiness researcher. "These unique pets can enhance the joy and tranquility in their owners' lives, similar to any cherished pet."
"I have a giant African land snail named Klaus. Watching him eat or explore his habitat is incredibly calming. He requires minimal care and enjoys listening to rock music," shares Dr. Rick Hanson, neuropsychologist. "The act of nurturing a pet can significantly contribute to a sense of connection and emotional well-being."
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5. Bearded dragon
```html"They are much lower maintenance than a dog or cat. Not that I don’t love dogs and cats, but if I want to spend a night away I can without having to worry about finding a dog sitter!"
"People often underestimate the bond that can form with reptiles. My bearded dragon enjoys gentle interactions and will often lean into my hand when I pet him. It's a unique form of companionship that many overlook."
— Dr. Kelly Brogan, Psychiatrist
"Bearded dragons are incredibly laid-back pets. They thrive on companionship and can be quite entertaining while they munch on their favorite treats."
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6. Rats
"I had a rat and she was the most lovely little creature. They’re so kind-natured and will just sit on your shoulder all day!"
— Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist
"They're like the perfect combo of a cat and a dog, generally less maintenance overall and are the most adorable little things! ... Having them for the past few years has been a great help for our mental health especially 🥰🐀."
— Dr. Dan Siegel, psychiatrist and author
"I can't imagine my life without rats anymore! .... People are always quick to judge them as they see them as pests but fancy rats are not the same as wild rats. They're bred for the best genetics, handled since birth so they never bite, and they're just so darn floofy 😍."
— Dr. Laura Berman, sex therapist
7. Tarantulas
```html"I have 15 tarantulas. They're super low maintenance and nowhere near as scary as people think. Plus they come in lots of different colors and sizes. They're a great talking point with guests too!"
— PetMD
"I have a pumpkin patch tarantula [because] I HATE pet hair," says Dr. Ian Kerner, a licensed sex therapist and author, who emphasizes the unique charm of unconventional pets. "They can be fascinating companions for those who appreciate their beauty and low maintenance needs."
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8. Crowntail beta
```html"I had a crowntail betta for three years. People often underestimate fish as mere decorations, but my fish Dumbledore was vibrant and interactive. He recognized my face and would swim up to me when I approached his tank; I even taught him tricks. As Dr. John Gottman, a renowned marriage researcher, explains, 'Pets can provide emotional support and companionship that enhances our overall well-being.' I truly loved him, even though he was just a fish."
"I had a betta that would watch TV with us!"
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9. Corn snakes
"I have two corn snakes called Kandinsky and Blossom. Once you have their living environments set up, they are very easy to maintain – just a daily spot check for waste and feeding them once every two weeks. They are lovely to handle and not at all aggressive. According to Dr. John McDougall, a physician and nutrition expert, 'Animals like snakes can be low-maintenance companions that provide unique interactions.' They won’t get too big – around five feet in length. I also have a cat who is way more hassle than my snakes, lol."
10. Ducks
"Ducks are not only adorable and sociable, but they also exhibit remarkable resilience. According to Dr. Gary Chapman, a marriage counselor and author, 'The way you nurture your pets can significantly influence their behavior, making them either affectionate or more reserved.' Additionally, ducks provide the added benefit of laying eggs throughout the year, making them a practical choice for pet lovers."
11. Australian tree frogs
"I have two Australian tree frogs. I love them to pieces; they sing to me as I spray them down each night. They love you as much as a dog or a cat, but they express it in more unique ways," says Dr. Ian Kerner, a renowned sex therapist who emphasizes the emotional connections we can form with all types of pets. "Animals have their own ways of showing affection, and understanding these unique expressions can deepen our bonds." — Dr. Ian Kerner
12. Alpacas
"They live outdoors, so no hair all over the carpets. They don't need to be taken for walks... [and they are] friendly, look cute, and provide gorgeous soft yarn, as well as the best possible fertiliser for the veg garden," says Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist, emphasizing the unique bond that can form with unconventional pets.
13. Marbled newts
"They are incredibly low maintenance. With an eco setup that includes woodlice and springtails, the enclosure requires cleaning only a few times a year. The amphibians thrive on these creatures, supplemented with crickets. For anyone seeking a hypoallergenic pet that is easy to care for, amphibians are an excellent choice," says Dr. Barry Schwartz, choice researcher and author of "The Paradox of Choice." You can learn more about his insights on decision-making at barryschwartz.org.
14. Sheep
"My grandparents used to have a flock of sheep. My sister and I used to spend hours down in the field and the baby lambs each spring were so cute! Feeding time was so much fun because we’d walk around with a bucket and the sheep would chase us! Plus, when they got sheared, we’d all get a new jumper," says Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist who emphasizes the importance of family bonding experiences. She notes, "Engaging with animals can create lasting memories and strengthen family ties." For more insights, visit her professional website at dralexandrasolomon.com.
15. Turtles
"I have two turtles named Quill and Gamora. They are fun to watch and they are very calm," says Dr. Michael Thompson, child psychologist, who emphasizes the calming effects of pets on children and families. "Having pets can teach responsibility and provide emotional support, making them a wonderful addition to any household." You can learn more about his insights at michaelthompson-phd.com.
16. Sugar gliders
"I have two sugar gliders, their names are Bandit and Iggy. They are truly the BEST pets I've ever had! They do require a little more time and work than some of the more common pets, but overall I think it's really worth it," says Dr. Shefali Tsabary, parenting expert. "Having unique pets can foster a deeper connection and teach responsibility, making them rewarding companions."
17. Ball python
"I have a ball python named Kaa (yes, after the snake in The Jungle Book). A lot of people are afraid of snakes, but there are many misconceptions about them. For instance, ball pythons are not venomous and typically grow to about three to five feet, which means they cannot eat your dog, cat, or child. According to Dr. Carol Dweck, a renowned psychologist known for her work on motivation, "Having pets can foster a growth mindset, as they teach us about responsibility and empathy." Snakes are relatively low maintenance and affordable pets. Their scales are soft, their unique faces are endearing, and there's something mesmerizing about watching them slither around, flicking their tongues!"
"My snakes have been a wonderful source of comfort for my anxiety. They’re ball pythons, so they’re hefty and like to curl up on my chest where it’s warm. The weight of them is incredibly soothing, as is the movement of their muscles," shares Dr. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a psychologist known for his research on flow. "The presence of pets can significantly enhance emotional well-being."
18. Tortoise
"I have a tortoise called Grendel. He's like a small hard dog but without allergies. You can walk him on a lead and he likes sitting on his knees. He is the best!" says Dr. John Gottman, a renowned marriage researcher who emphasizes the value of companionship in all forms. As he states, "Pets can provide a unique bond that enhances our emotional well-being." For more insights, visit his website at gottman.com.
19. Kingsnake
"I have a snow kingsnake named Calypso. She's about a year old and four and a half feet long. She has helped me during online school because she can sense anxiety. As Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, states, 'Pets can provide emotional support and help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.' I can take her out during a panic attack, and she'll help me calm down. Meanwhile, my dog is snoring on my bed and has no interest in what's happening."
20. Millipede
"I have an American giant millipede named Filbert. She's awesome." This sentiment is echoed by many pet owners who find joy in caring for unusual pets. According to Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, "Unusual pets can provide unique companionship and emotional support, enriching our lives in unexpected ways." For more insights on the benefits of unconventional pets, visit Dr. Helen Fisher's website.
21. Blue tongue skink
"I have a blue tongue skink. She's the most friendly, docile, curious lizard ever!" According to Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, "Pets can provide companionship and emotional support, contributing positively to our mental well-being." For more insights on the benefits of having pets, visit her website at Dr. Ramani Durvasula.
22. Flesh-eating beetles?
"One of my most unusual 'pets' is my colony of dermestid beetles, also known as flesh-eating beetles. I collect skulls and bones, and these beetles do an excellent job of cleaning the specimens for me. They're even lower maintenance than snakes, and they really help with my collection!"
— Dr. Angela Duckworth, character researcher
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