New research evaluating the UK exotic pet trade: legal and ethical issues

Over the last decade the demand for ‘exotic’ pets in Western countries has grown significantly. In particular, reptiles, amphibians, and unusual mammals (e.g. racoon dogs and kinkajous) have become increasingly popular and widely available, yet little is known about their husbandry needs in comparison to commonly kept domesticated species. Whilst the Pet Animals Act (1951) was enacted in response to a growing pet trade and the Dangerous Wild Animals Act (1976) in response to an increase of ‘dangerous’ exotic animals being readily available, there are a number of discrepancies and gaps in and between these key laws. As a result of this, and the ever increasing number of exotic species being kept, the Government and Local Authorities have not been able to effectively maintain pace with what species are being bought and sold by pet venders. Local Authorities are also under increasing pressure to adequately enforce these laws due to cuts in funding and a lack of training in animal welfare. The aim of this research is to quantify the impact the exotic pet trade is having on animal welfare, and provide recommendations as to how relevant legislation should be updated