Can You Have A Pet Serval: Legality, Care, and Considerations?

Serval ownership raises many questions. At PETS.EDU.VN, we understand your curiosity about exotic pets like servals, but before considering such a commitment, it’s essential to understand the legal, ethical, and practical considerations. Owning a serval involves understanding exotic animal ownership, responsible pet ownership and domesticating wild animals. Keep reading to find more about serval cat ownership, exotic pet restrictions, and wild animal care.

1. What Is A Serval?

A serval is a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa. Characterized by their slender build, long legs, large ears, and spotted coat, servals are primarily found in savanna and grassland habitats. They are skilled hunters, preying on rodents, birds, reptiles, and insects. In recent years, they have gained some popularity as exotic pets, leading to questions about the feasibility and ethics of owning one.

2. Is It Legal to Own a Serval?

The legality of owning a serval varies significantly depending on your location. Here’s a breakdown:

United States: Laws differ by state. Some states explicitly prohibit serval ownership, others require permits or licenses, and some have no specific regulations.
United Kingdom: Owning a serval is legal but regulated under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. A license is required, and strict conditions must be met to ensure the animal’s welfare and public safety.
Canada: Regulations vary by province and territory. Some areas may prohibit serval ownership, while others may have specific requirements.
Australia: Servals are generally prohibited as pets due to strict quarantine laws and concerns about introducing non-native species.
Other Countries: It is crucial to research local and national laws regarding exotic animal ownership. Contact your local wildlife or agricultural department for the most accurate information.

Always verify the most current regulations in your area before considering serval ownership. Failure to comply with local laws can result in hefty fines, confiscation of the animal, or even criminal charges. Reputable sources such as the USDA, CITES, and local government websites are reliable resources for this information.

3. What Are the Challenges of Owning a Serval?

Owning a serval comes with numerous challenges that potential owners must consider. These challenges span various aspects of care, including housing, diet, veterinary needs, and behavioral management.

3.1 Housing Requirements

Servals are active and require a large, secure enclosure to mimic their natural habitat. According to a study by the Feline Conservation Federation, the minimum enclosure size should be no less than 800 square feet. The enclosure should include:

Secure Fencing: High, sturdy fencing is essential to prevent escapes. Servals are excellent jumpers and climbers, capable of leaping up to 10 feet high from a standing position.
Enrichment: Provide a variety of climbing structures, platforms, and toys to keep the serval mentally and physically stimulated.
Shelter: A secure, weatherproof shelter is necessary to protect the serval from the elements. This could be a large dog house or a custom-built structure.

3.2 Dietary Needs

Servals have specific dietary requirements that can be challenging and expensive to meet. In the wild, their diet consists primarily of small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Captive servals require a diet high in protein and taurine, an essential amino acid. Meeting these needs typically involves:

Raw Meat: A diet of raw meat, including bones and organs, is ideal. Commercially available raw diets formulated for wild cats can be used.
Supplements: Taurine supplements may be necessary to ensure the serval receives adequate amounts.
Veterinary Consultation: Consult with a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal care to develop a balanced diet plan.

3.3 Veterinary Care

Finding a veterinarian experienced in treating exotic animals can be challenging, especially in rural areas. Servals require specialized veterinary care, including:

Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations are necessary to protect against common feline diseases.
Parasite Control: Regular deworming and flea/tick prevention are essential.
Anesthesia: Servals can be difficult to handle, and anesthesia may be required for routine procedures like dental cleanings or examinations.
Emergency Care: Be prepared for the possibility of needing emergency veterinary care, which can be costly.

3.4 Behavioral Issues

Servals retain their wild instincts, even when raised in captivity. This can lead to behavioral issues that are difficult to manage. Common challenges include:

Spraying: Servals often mark their territory by spraying urine, which can be problematic in a domestic setting.
Destructive Behavior: They may exhibit destructive behavior, such as scratching furniture or digging, especially if not provided with adequate enrichment.
Aggression: While some servals can be socialized, they may still exhibit aggression towards strangers or other pets.
Unpredictability: Servals are not fully domesticated and can be unpredictable. They may bite or scratch, especially when stressed or frightened.

3.5 Ethical Concerns

The ethical implications of owning a serval are significant. Removing a wild animal from its natural habitat to keep it as a pet raises concerns about animal welfare and conservation. Servals kept in captivity may suffer from:

Stress: Confinement can lead to chronic stress and behavioral problems.
Boredom: Lack of mental and physical stimulation can result in boredom and depression.
Health Problems: Improper diet and inadequate veterinary care can lead to various health issues.

Additionally, the exotic pet trade can contribute to the decline of wild populations by encouraging poaching and habitat destruction. For more information, resources like the World Wildlife Fund and the International Fund for Animal Welfare offer valuable insights into the impact of the exotic pet trade on wildlife conservation.

4. What Are the Differences Between a Serval and a Domestic Cat?

While servals may resemble domestic cats in some ways, they are fundamentally different animals with distinct needs and behaviors. Here’s a comparison:

Feature	Serval	Domestic Cat
Origin	Native to Africa, wild animal	Domesticated for thousands of years
Size	Larger, weighing 20-40 pounds	Smaller, weighing 8-12 pounds
Behavior	Retains wild instincts, prone to spraying, destructive behavior, and aggression	More domesticated, generally more docile and predictable
Diet	Requires a specialized diet of raw meat, bones, and organs	Can thrive on commercially available cat food
Housing	Requires a large, secure outdoor enclosure with climbing structures and enrichment	Can live comfortably indoors with appropriate toys and scratching posts
Veterinary Care	Requires specialized veterinary care from a veterinarian experienced in exotic animals	Can be treated by most general practice veterinarians
Legality	Ownership may be restricted or prohibited depending on location	Generally legal to own, but local ordinances may apply
Lifespan	10 – 20 years in captivity	12 – 18 years
Conservation Status	Least Concern	N/A
Grooming	Minimal grooming required; primarily self-grooming	Regular grooming helps prevent matting and hairballs
Exercise Needs	Requires ample space to run, jump, and climb; needs a large outdoor enclosure	Enjoys playing and exploring indoors and may benefit from supervised outdoor time
Socialization	Can be challenging to socialize; may exhibit aggression towards strangers and other pets; requires early and consistent handling	Typically social and can adapt to living with other cats, dogs, and humans with proper introduction; benefits from early socialization
Training	Difficult to train due to strong wild instincts; requires experienced handlers and specialized techniques; may respond to positive reinforcement but not as reliably as domestic cats	Highly trainable using positive reinforcement techniques; can learn various commands and tricks; responds well to consistency and patience
Environmental Impact	If escaped, can pose a threat to native wildlife due to hunting instincts; may disrupt local ecosystems	Minimal environmental impact when properly cared for; responsible pet ownership practices (e.g., keeping cats indoors) help prevent harm to wildlife
Suitability as Pet	Not suitable for most individuals due to high maintenance, specialized care needs, and potential behavioral issues; best suited for experienced wildlife handlers and conservation facilities	Suitable for a wide range of individuals and families; adaptable to various living situations; enjoys companionship and provides emotional support
Cost	High initial cost (purchase price, enclosure construction); ongoing expenses for specialized diet, veterinary care, and enrichment	Relatively lower initial cost (adoption fees, basic supplies); ongoing expenses for food, litter, toys, and routine veterinary care
Legal Considerations	Requires permits or licenses in many areas; compliance with exotic animal regulations; may be subject to inspections and restrictions	Generally legal to own; may be subject to local ordinances regarding pet ownership (e.g., leash laws, vaccination requirements)
Ethical Considerations	Concerns about animal welfare in captivity; potential contribution to the exotic pet trade; may not be able to fully express natural behaviors in a domestic environment; ethical sourcing is critical	Ethical considerations include responsible breeding practices, providing proper care and enrichment, and avoiding abandonment; adopting from shelters helps reduce pet overpopulation
Public Safety	Potential risk to public safety if escaped or mishandled; strong hunting instincts may pose a threat to small animals and children; requires secure containment to prevent escape	Minimal risk to public safety when properly cared for; may exhibit defensive behaviors if threatened; responsible ownership includes training and supervision to ensure safety
Space Requirements	Demands extensive space for roaming, jumping, and exploring; unsuitable for apartment living; needs a large, securely fenced outdoor area	Adapts well to indoor living; benefits from access to windows and vertical space; can thrive in apartments with adequate enrichment and exercise opportunities
Time Commitment	Requires significant time for feeding, cleaning, enrichment, and monitoring; needs daily interaction and attention; may require specialized training or handling	Requires regular time for feeding, grooming, playing, and providing affection; benefits from consistent routines and positive interactions; can be left alone for moderate periods without distress
Understanding Needs	Demands deep understanding of wild cat behavior and physiology; requires specialized knowledge to meet dietary, medical, and behavioral needs; best suited for those with experience in exotic animal care	Needs understanding of feline behavior and basic care requirements; benefits from knowledge of cat health and nutrition; can be successfully cared for by a wide range of individuals with proper information and resources

5. What Are the Potential Dangers of Owning a Serval?

Owning a serval poses several potential dangers, both to the owner and the animal:

Bites and Scratches: Servals have sharp teeth and claws and can inflict serious injuries.
Escape: Escaped servals can pose a threat to native wildlife and may be injured or killed by cars or other hazards.
Disease Transmission: Servals can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans or other animals.
Unpredictable Behavior: Even well-socialized servals can exhibit unpredictable behavior, especially when stressed or frightened.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exotic animals can carry diseases such as rabies, salmonellosis, and parasites that can be transmitted to humans.

6. What Kind of Environment Do Servals Need?

Servals require a specialized environment that mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible. Key elements include:

Large Enclosure: A minimum of 800 square feet, with high, secure fencing.
Climbing Structures: Trees, platforms, and sturdy climbing posts.
Hiding Places: Dense vegetation or artificial shelters where the serval can retreat and feel secure.
Water Source: A large water bowl or small pond for drinking and bathing.
Enrichment: Toys, puzzle feeders, and opportunities for hunting and exploration.

A study in “Applied Animal Behaviour Science” found that providing complex and stimulating environments for captive wild cats can significantly reduce stress and improve their overall welfare.

7. How Do You Care For A Pet Serval?

Caring for a serval requires a significant commitment of time, resources, and expertise. Key aspects of care include:

7.1 Feeding

Raw Meat Diet: Feed a diet of raw meat, bones, and organs, supplemented with taurine.
Portion Control: Monitor food intake to prevent obesity.
Fresh Water: Always provide fresh, clean water.
Feeding Schedule: Feed at consistent times each day to establish a routine.

7.2 Grooming

Minimal Grooming: Servals are generally clean animals and require minimal grooming.
Occasional Brushing: Brush occasionally to remove loose fur.
Nail Trimming: Trim nails as needed to prevent overgrowth.

7.3 Health

Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor health and prevent disease.
Vaccinations: Keep vaccinations up-to-date.
Parasite Control: Administer regular deworming and flea/tick prevention.
Dental Care: Provide dental chews or schedule regular dental cleanings to maintain oral health.

7.4 Enrichment

Toys: Provide a variety of toys, such as balls, puzzle feeders, and stuffed animals.
Climbing Structures: Ensure the enclosure includes plenty of climbing opportunities.
Hunting Opportunities: Offer opportunities for hunting, such as hiding food in the enclosure or providing live prey (under supervision).
Social Interaction: Spend time interacting with the serval to provide mental stimulation and companionship.

8. What Are Hybrid Cats (Serval Mixes)?

Hybrid cats, such as Savannah cats (a cross between a serval and a domestic cat), are becoming increasingly popular. While these hybrids may be smaller and more domesticated than purebred servals, they still require specialized care and may exhibit wild behaviors.

8.1 Legality

The legality of owning hybrid cats varies by location. Some areas may prohibit certain generations of hybrids (e.g., F1 or F2 Savannah cats), while others have no specific regulations.

8.2 Care Requirements

Hybrid cats require a combination of care practices for both domestic cats and servals. They may need larger enclosures, specialized diets, and experienced handlers.

8.3 Ethical Considerations

Breeding hybrid cats raises ethical concerns about animal welfare and the potential for genetic defects. Responsible breeders should prioritize the health and well-being of the animals over profit.

9. What Organizations Can Help with Serval Rescue and Adoption?

If you are interested in supporting serval welfare, several organizations are dedicated to rescuing and providing sanctuary for these animals:

Organization	Focus	Website
The Wildcat Sanctuary	Rescue and rehabilitation of wild cats	Wildcat Sanctuary
Big Cat Rescue	Advocacy and rescue for big cats	Big Cat Rescue
Feline Conservation Federation	Conservation and education about wild cats	Feline Conservation Federation
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries	Accreditation and support for animal sanctuaries worldwide	GFAS

These organizations provide valuable resources and opportunities to support serval conservation and welfare.

10. What Are Some Alternatives to Owning a Serval?

If you are drawn to the unique beauty and behavior of servals but are not prepared for the challenges of owning one, several alternatives can provide similar experiences:

Supporting Sanctuaries: Donate to or volunteer at a reputable wild cat sanctuary.
Adopting a Domestic Cat: Many domestic cat breeds share similar physical traits and personalities with servals.
Wildlife Photography: Explore your passion for wild animals through photography and observation in their natural habitat.
Education and Advocacy: Educate others about the ethical concerns surrounding the exotic pet trade and advocate for stronger regulations.

11. What Are the Legal Consequences of Owning a Serval Illegally?

Owning a serval illegally can result in severe legal consequences, varying based on local and national laws. Potential penalties include:

Fines: Substantial monetary fines may be imposed for violating exotic animal ownership laws.
Confiscation: The serval may be confiscated by authorities and placed in a sanctuary or rehomed to a licensed facility.
Criminal Charges: Depending on the jurisdiction, illegal serval ownership can lead to criminal charges, such as misdemeanors or felonies.
Imprisonment: In some cases, individuals found guilty of violating exotic animal laws may face imprisonment.
Liability: Owners may be held liable for any damages or injuries caused by the serval, including medical expenses and property damage.
Permit Revocation: If a permit or license was previously obtained, it may be revoked, preventing future ownership of exotic animals.
Seizure of Other Animals: Authorities may seize other animals owned by the individual if they are found to be kept in violation of animal welfare laws.
Legal Record: A conviction for illegal serval ownership can create a criminal record, affecting future employment and housing opportunities.
Restrictions on Travel: Some countries may restrict travel for individuals with a history of violating animal laws.
Damage to Reputation: Legal issues related to exotic animal ownership can damage an individual’s reputation and social standing.

Strict enforcement of exotic animal laws aims to protect both the animals and the public, underscoring the importance of understanding and complying with all applicable regulations.

12. What Are the Common Health Issues in Servals?

Servals, like all animals, are susceptible to various health issues, some of which are more prevalent in captive environments due to dietary and lifestyle differences compared to their wild counterparts. Common health problems in servals include:

Nutritional Deficiencies: Imbalanced diets lacking essential nutrients like taurine, vitamin E, or calcium can lead to severe health problems, including heart disease, vision loss, and skeletal abnormalities.
Obesity: Captive servals with limited space for exercise and excessive food intake are prone to obesity, increasing the risk of diabetes, joint problems, and cardiovascular issues.
Dental Disease: A diet lacking natural abrasive elements found in whole prey can result in tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth decay, potentially leading to systemic infections.
Parasitic Infections: Servals can be infected by internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, as well as external parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites, causing skin irritation, anemia, and weight loss.
Respiratory Infections: Upper respiratory infections, including feline herpesvirus and calicivirus, can cause sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and fever, especially in young or immunocompromised servals.
Kidney Disease: Chronic kidney disease is a common age-related issue in servals, leading to decreased kidney function, increased thirst and urination, and potentially life-threatening complications.
Heart Disease: Conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can affect servals, causing thickening of the heart muscle, reduced cardiac output, and increased risk of sudden death.
Arthritis: Joint inflammation and degeneration can occur in older servals, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility, affecting their quality of life.
Cancer: Servals can develop various types of cancer, including lymphoma, mammary tumors, and skin cancer, requiring aggressive treatment and monitoring.
Behavioral Problems: Captive servals may exhibit behavioral issues like excessive grooming, pacing, and aggression due to stress, boredom, or lack of appropriate environmental enrichment.

Preventive care, including regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, parasite control, and vaccinations, is essential to maintaining the health and well-being of servals in captivity. Early detection and treatment of health issues can improve the prognosis and quality of life for these animals.

13. What Are the Ethical Considerations of Breeding Servals?

Breeding servals, especially for the exotic pet trade, raises significant ethical concerns related to animal welfare, conservation, and public safety. Key ethical issues include:

Animal Welfare: Servals bred in captivity may suffer from various health problems, genetic defects, and behavioral issues due to inadequate care, inbreeding, and lack of appropriate socialization, compromising their overall well-being.
Conservation Impact: Breeding servals for the pet trade can undermine conservation efforts by reducing demand for wild-caught animals, disrupting natural populations, and potentially introducing non-native species into ecosystems if they escape or are released.
Public Safety: Captive-bred servals may pose a threat to public safety due to their wild instincts, unpredictable behavior, and potential for aggression, especially if they are not properly trained and managed, leading to injuries or property damage.
Genetic Diversity: Breeding servals from a limited gene pool can result in reduced genetic diversity, increasing the risk of inherited diseases and compromising the long-term health and viability of the species.
Surplus Animals: The exotic pet trade often results in a surplus of unwanted servals, leading to abandonment, neglect, and euthanasia, as many owners are unable to provide the specialized care and resources required to meet their needs.
Enforcement Challenges: Regulating serval breeding and ownership can be challenging, requiring significant resources and expertise to monitor compliance, prevent illegal activities, and ensure animal welfare standards are met.
Misinformation: Breeders may provide misleading or incomplete information about the challenges and responsibilities of serval ownership, leading to unrealistic expectations and potentially harmful decisions by prospective owners.
Exploitation: Breeding servals for profit can exploit the animals by prioritizing commercial interests over their welfare, subjecting them to stressful conditions, and separating them from their mothers prematurely.
Sanctuary Burden: Animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations often bear the burden of caring for abandoned or confiscated servals, straining their resources and limiting their ability to assist other animals in need.
Unnatural Environment: Captive environments cannot fully replicate the natural habitats and social structures that servals have evolved to thrive in, potentially leading to chronic stress, behavioral abnormalities, and compromised welfare.

Addressing these ethical concerns requires responsible breeding practices, strict regulations, public education, and a commitment to prioritizing the welfare and conservation of servals over commercial gain.

14. How Can I Ensure a Serval Is Well-Cared For?

Ensuring a serval is well-cared for requires a deep understanding of their unique needs, a significant commitment of time and resources, and adherence to best practices in animal husbandry and welfare. Key steps to ensure a serval’s well-being include:

Species-Appropriate Environment: Provide a large, secure enclosure that mimics their natural habitat, with ample space for running, jumping, and climbing, as well as access to sunlight, shade, and shelter from the elements.
Balanced Diet: Feed a balanced diet consisting of high-quality raw meat, bones, and organs, supplemented with essential nutrients like taurine, vitamin E, and calcium, to meet their specific nutritional requirements.
Veterinary Care: Establish a relationship with a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal medicine and schedule regular check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care to prevent and treat health issues promptly.
Enrichment Opportunities: Offer a variety of enrichment opportunities to stimulate their minds and bodies, including toys, puzzle feeders, climbing structures, and opportunities for hunting and exploration, to prevent boredom and behavioral problems.
Social Interaction: Provide opportunities for positive social interaction with humans and, if appropriate, other compatible animals, to promote emotional well-being and reduce stress, while respecting their need for personal space.
Behavioral Management: Implement positive reinforcement training techniques to teach appropriate behaviors and address any behavioral issues, while avoiding punishment or coercion, which can damage their trust and well-being.
Safety Precautions: Take appropriate safety precautions to prevent escapes, injuries, and zoonotic disease transmission, including secure enclosures, proper handling techniques, and regular health screenings.
Legal Compliance: Comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding serval ownership, including permits, licenses, and inspections, to ensure their legal status and protect their welfare.
Emergency Preparedness: Develop an emergency preparedness plan to ensure their safety and well-being in the event of natural disasters, power outages, or other emergencies, including evacuation procedures, backup food and water supplies, and veterinary contact information.
Ongoing Education: Stay informed about the latest research and best practices in serval care by consulting with experts, attending conferences, and reading scientific literature, to continuously improve their welfare and quality of life.

By following these guidelines and remaining dedicated to their well-being, you can provide a captive serval with a fulfilling and enriching life, while respecting their wild nature and unique needs.

15. What Should I Do If I Can No Longer Care For A Serval?

If you find yourself unable to care for a serval, it’s crucial to take responsible steps to ensure its well-being and safety. Here’s a guide on what to do:

Contact the Breeder or Seller: If you acquired the serval from a breeder or seller, reach out to them first. Reputable breeders often have policies in place for taking back animals they’ve sold if the owner can no longer care for them.
Reach Out to Sanctuaries: Contact accredited wildlife sanctuaries or rescue organizations specializing in exotic animals. They may be able to take in the serval or provide guidance on finding a suitable placement.
Consult with Veterinarians: Speak to your veterinarian or exotic animal specialists. They may have connections with individuals or organizations equipped to care for servals.
Contact Local Authorities: Inform your local animal control or wildlife authorities about your situation. They can provide resources and ensure you’re following legal procedures for relinquishing the animal.
Avoid Illegal Release: Never release a serval into the wild. Servals are not native to most regions, and releasing them can harm local ecosystems and endanger the animal.
Be Honest About the Serval’s History: When seeking a new home for the serval, be transparent about its health, behavior, and history. This helps potential caregivers provide the best possible care.
Consider Temporary Care: If possible, arrange for temporary care while you explore long-term options. This prevents the serval from experiencing immediate stress and ensures its needs are met.
Evaluate Potential Caregivers: Thoroughly evaluate potential caregivers or organizations. Ensure they have the experience, resources, and facilities to provide appropriate care for a serval.
Seek Legal Advice: If necessary, consult with an attorney specializing in animal law to understand your rights and obligations regarding relinquishing ownership of the serval.
Financial Support: If possible, offer financial support to the new caregivers to help cover the costs of food, veterinary care, and enclosure maintenance.

Taking these steps ensures that the serval receives the care it needs and prevents potential harm to the animal and the environment.

FAQ About Servals As Pets

1. Are servals dangerous pets?

Servals can be dangerous due to their wild instincts, sharp teeth, and claws. They are not fully domesticated and can be unpredictable.

2. How much does a serval cost?

Servals can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $35,000, depending on the breeder and location.

3. What do servals eat?

Servals eat a diet of raw meat, bones, and organs, supplemented with taurine.

4. How big do servals get?

Servals typically weigh between 20 and 40 pounds and stand about 20-24 inches tall.

5. Can servals be litter box trained?

Servals can be trained to use a litter box, but they may still spray to mark their territory.

6. Do servals get along with other pets?

Servals may not get along with other pets, especially smaller animals that they may view as prey.

7. How long do servals live?

Servals typically live 10-20 years in captivity.

8. Are servals legal to own in my state?

Laws regarding serval ownership vary by state. Check your local regulations before considering serval ownership.

9. What kind of enclosure does a serval need?

Servals need a large, secure outdoor enclosure with climbing structures and enrichment.

10. Are servals good pets for families with children?

Servals are generally not recommended as pets for families with children due to their wild instincts and potential for aggression.

Conclusion

Owning a serval is a complex issue with significant legal, ethical, and practical considerations. While the allure of owning an exotic pet may be strong, it is essential to carefully weigh the challenges and responsibilities involved. By understanding the unique needs of servals and the potential dangers of keeping them as pets, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes the animal’s welfare and public safety.

If you’re passionate about animal welfare and exotic pet ownership, PETS.EDU.VN offers a wealth of resources to guide you. From in-depth articles on exotic animal care to directories of local veterinarians and sanctuaries, we’re here to support your journey. Still have questions? Our team of experts is just a click away. Contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States. Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543, or visit our website PETS.EDU.VN for personalized advice. At pets.edu.vn, we want to make sure you have the resources to be responsible for animal ownership, responsible pet ownership and exotic animal restrictions.