Exotic Pets Take Over Chattanooga: A Growing Trend in Unique Companionship

Exotic Pets: Chattanooga’s New Best Friends

Chattanooga, a city known for its friendly vibe and scenic views, is experiencing a unique trend that’s capturing the hearts of many: exotic pets! It seems now more than ever, people are opting for unusual companions instead of the traditional cats and dogs. With unique choices ranging from reptiles to tarantulas, there’s more to discover in this growing realm of pet ownership.

Dr. Micah Woods: The Exotic Animal Whisperer

Meet Dr. Micah Woods, an elite vet at Ooltewah Veterinary Hospital, who has become somewhat of a savior for exotic animals in the area. His fascination for these unique creatures began long ago while growing up in Saudi Arabia. “As a kid, there wasn’t much to do but explore the desert,” Woods shares, reminiscing about the thrills of tracking down scorpions and snakes. This early interest blossomed into a lifelong passion; by the time he reached college, his apartment hosted more exotic animals than most zoos!

According to Dr. Woods, the surge in exotic pet ownership is no accident. “Each time you walk into a pet store, the reptile aisle is almost always where the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ happen,” he noted. In fact, many reptile species require less maintenance compared to the traditional pet. “Tarantulas and snakes can be left alone for days, and they don’t bark!” he chuckles.

Questions to Consider Before Bringing Home an Exotic

Before jumping into exotic pet ownership, Dr. Woods emphasizes asking a few crucial questions:

1. Do you have the time?
2. Do you have the space?
3. Can you afford potential vet bills?

He warns against misinformation found online and advocates for reading credible books on the care of exotic animals. “Nine times out of ten, the issues we see are due to inadequate care,” he stresses. So if you’re considering that charming bearded dragon or a colorful dart frog, make sure you are ready to provide the best care possible!

Meet Stefanie Pitcairn and Her Fear-Conquering Spiders

Another local exotic animal aficionado is Stefanie Pitcairn, who initially ventured into the world of spiders as a way to confront her fears. “I had a fear of spiders, and I heard that owning one could help me overcome it. And it worked!” Now, she joyfully calls seven tarantulas, a ball python, and even a hissing cockroach her friends!

Stefanie’s hobby has turned into a unique lifestyle, with her pets even having a Harry Potter-themed room. Together with her daughter, Lydia, they even take their bearded dragon, Mon, out for walks around the neighborhood, no less dressed up in cute costumes! “It’s a lot of fun introducing them to people and watching them get over their fears,” Stefanie beams.

Clyde the Sulcata Tortoise: A Long-Term Commitment

Then there’s Jake Willard, who recently adopted a two-year-old sulcata tortoise named Clyde. While Jake may be just starting this exotic pet journey, he’s well aware of the lifelong commitment it entails. “Clyde could outlive me! He’ll be around for almost a century!” Jake chuckles as he talks about building an elaborate enclosure for his new friend.

Feeding Clyde has become an adventure in itself. “He’s picky!” Jake admits. “He loves cantaloupe but won’t touch kale,” he laughs, while ensuring his new buddy has a space to bask in the cozy warmth he needs.

Conclusion: Join the Exotic Pet Trend!

It’s evident that beneath Chattanooga’s friendly facade lies a thriving community of exotic pet lovers, redefining the meaning of companionship. Whether it’s the thrill of caring for a creature like a tarantula, nurturing a bearded dragon, or embracing a long-term friendship with a tortoise, these individuals are proving that love knows no bounds, even when it comes to unexpected pet choice.

Before jumping in, just remember to do your homework and ensure whatever exotic pet you choose fits into your lifestyle. With commitment, knowledge, and a little care, you could be welcoming a unique new family member that keeps everyone talking!