Pets represent friendship and companionship. Cats and dogs are common in households, but uncommon pets have unique personalities and traits.

In his backyard, sophomore Mason Daniels’ minipig named DeeDee runs around. 

“My uncle got her for us on Christmas morning two years ago,” Daniels said.

A big difference between common and uncommon pets is how to acquire them. When buying a cat or a dog, pet owners might choose to purchase a pet from a pet store. Buying a more unique pet can be a bit more difficult. 

Senior Cooper Buell, who owns a ball python, knows about this.

“I bought it online and had it shipped from Pennsylvania,” Buell said. 

Another aspect that is slightly different from a traditional pet is what owners need to keep up with these exotic pets, such as food and space. Also, some parents are not easily swayed into adopting an atypical pet. 

“My mom was reluctant to get a gecko because she was worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with it,” junior Dara Mentzer said.

Feeding can be another complex aspect when it comes to owning exotic pets. 

Some owners think feeding is a simple, straightforward process.

 “It’s a lot more laid back,” Buell said. “You only have to feed a snake a couple times a month.”

However, others find the process of feeding their pet can be a complicated challenge. 

“You have to change what you feed them because geckos get tired of eating the same thing over and over,” Mentzer said. “They just stop eating when they’re sick of it.”

Some unique pets might be seen as unusual or weird, and a few don’t understand why. Sometimes, it’s due to people’s fear, which pet owners may see as unnecessary. 

“Most people don’t understand how harmless they are,” Buell said. “My snake has never bit anybody as long as I’ve had it.”

Other times, people may be focused on cleanliness.

“Some pigs roll around in the mud, but my pig doesn’t do that,” Daniels said.