Keeping wild and exotic animals as pets threatens public health and safety as well as animal welfare. Wild animals can attack, they can spread disease, and the average pet owner cannot provide the care they need in captivity. Help us keep wild animals in the wild!
From anacondas to bears to chimpanzees, it’s simple as ABC: These are dangerous wild animals. It may come as a surprise that in some states they are legal as pets.
Even captive-bred wild animals have wild instincts, and smaller animals can attack, too. There’s also the risk of diseases such as Herpes B virus and Salmonella.
Often bought as cuddly babies, when exotic pets become too much to handle they may be kept in small cages or even let loose—putting other wildlife at risk.
Help stop the trade in dangerous wild animals as pets. And if you want a pet, please visit a local shelter to find a domesticated pet suited to be a lifelong member of your family.
Take Action: It's Time to Ban Dangerous Exotic Animals in Ohio
Take Action: Support the Captive Primate Safety Act
No More Exotic Pets in Ohio
In the wake of the release and subsequent killing of dozens of exotic animals from a private menagerie in Zanesville, Ohio, we're once again calling on the state to strictly regulate private ownership of dangerous wild animals.
Learn MoreNews & Events
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January 26, 2012
The HSUS Applauds Pennsylvania House of Representatives' Move to Ban Private Exotic Pet Ownership
The HSUS welcomes the Pennsylvania House of Representatives’ passage Tuesday of state legislation, H.B. 1398, sponsored by Rep. Edward Staback, D-Lackawanna/Wayne, to ban the private possession of dangerous exotic animals, including lions, tigers, bears, wolves, coyotes, bobcats, leopards, cougars, cheetahs, jaguars and primates.
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December 7, 2011
"One Lucky Elephant" on DVD
Purchase the ACE-winning documentary "One Lucky Elephant," on DVD through the month of December.
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November 23, 2011
Exotic Pet Ownership Ban Urged After Hampton Man is Bitten by Pet Cobra
In light of recent news of a Hampton man who was hospitalized after being bitten by his pet cobra, The Humane Society of the United States is once again urging Gov. Bob McDonnell and Virginia legislators to act swiftly to prohibit future ownership of dangerous wild animals.
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November 21, 2011
The HSUS Encouraged by Ohio Task Force Recommendations on Exotic Animal Ban
The Humane Society of the United States' President and CEO Wayne Pacelle issues a statement in response to an Ohio study group's recommendations to ban exotic animals in the state.
Our Victories
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December 29, 2011
2011: Beautiful Victories for Animals in Laboratories
What do Botox, the Endangered Species Act, and biomedical research have in common? Find out about The HSUS's work to protect animals in laboratories in 2011.
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January 6, 2011
Ohio Rule Issued to Prohibit Dangerous Wild Animals as Pets
The HSUS applauds Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland for issuing an executive order that prohibits keeping dangerous wild animals as pets.
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January 5, 2011
Shark Conservation Act Signed into Law to Curb Cruel Shark Finning
The HSUS, HSI and the Humane Society Legislative Fund applaud President Barack Obama for signing an important bipartisan bill that will increase protection for sharks from the cruel and wasteful practice of shark finning.
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December 21, 2010
Shark Conservation Act Wins Final Congressional Approval
The HSUS, Humane Society International and the Humane Society Legislative Fund commend the U.S. House for giving final congressional approval to legislation that will increase protection for sharks from the cruel and wasteful practice of shark finning.