Wait…was that a kangaroo? In Colorado?
If you found yourself doing a double-take earlier this year when news broke about a kangaroo making a hop for it in Colorado, you certainly were not alone. One marsupial’s brief taste of Rocky Mountain freedom got a lot of folks wondering, “What kind of exotic pets are actually legal to own in Colorado?” The answer might have you surprised – if not completely delighted!
Exotic Pets in Colorado, (Mostly) Legal
While you’ll never be free to recreate a Rocky Mountain version of Tiger King in your own backyard, you still have a plethora of choices for exotic pet ownership in the Centennial State. Here are a few oddball animals that are legal with the right permits, and minus any local exclusions.
Exotic Colorado pets might include:
- Bearded dragons – Perhaps these are Colorado’s unofficial reptilian roommate of choice. They can be ideal and low-drama companions.
- Macaws and cockatoos – Boisterous, colorful, and full of opinions, these birds are included under the heading of exotic pets – but could also be classified as comedians.
- Ball pythons – Calm, cool companions, who are perfectly content to curl up for a good Netflix binge.
- Sugar gliders – These tiny flying marsupials look like they were dreamed up by Disney animators. Lots of families love these little ones as pets, but two is better than one!
- Wallabies – It makes sense (we think) that if it’s legal to own a kangaroo in Colorado, that you can also make a wallaby your pet. But be warned! They too, can become wayfarers.
Other pets, including zebra, reindeer, African pygmy hedgehogs, and leopard frogs are allowed in Colorado, as well.
At Woofie’s of the Denver Foothills, we love all pets! But we must remind our dear readers that these creatures, though legal, might not be easy pets to care for. Exotic pets require expert care, including special diets, appropriate enclosures, and routines that sometimes rival full-time jobs.
When Pet Boarding Is Not an Option for Your Exotic Pet
Most pet hotels and boarding facilities draw the line somewhere between dogs and – let’s say, ferrets. So, if you’re fortunate enough to share your home with a parrot that constantly quotes his favorite movies, or a hedgehog that demands to be swaddled in warmed towels, traditional boarding won’t cut it.
That’s where Woofie’s of the Denver Foothills comes in! Our professional pet sitters near you in Golden, Arvada, Littleton, Morrison, Lakewood, and throughout Jefferson County Colorado, understand that pets are not just relegated to cats and dogs. Sometimes, special families have very special pets.
No matter the type of pet you have, we know that they are a part of your family. If you have questions about professional care for your exotic pet, we encourage you to reach out to us to inquire about our services. We could be just the right fit for you and your pet!
From drop-in pet sitting visits to overnight pet sitting stays, Woofie’s local pet sitters will make sure that your exotic (and not-so-exotic) pets are cared for. If you’re in search of pet sitters that are highly experienced, trained, and pre-vetted for exemplary service, Woofie’s wants to be your first choice!
Keep Them Legal, Keep Them Loved
Whether your best friend slithers, glides, or chirps, exotic pet ownership can be an adventure – if not a comedy of errors. When you need a crew to understand the quirks of your unconventional crew, Woofie’s will work to understand all yours and your pets requirements. We would advise anyone gearing up for exotic pet ownership to check all local, state, and federal laws related to the pet. And do extensive research to ensure that yours will be a happy, healthy, and safe home for them to call theirs!
These Pets Are Not Allowed in Colorado
Venomous reptiles, non-native mammals, and Colorado wildlife are a few restrictions on exotic pets here, including these animals:
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Schedule your appointment today and treat your pooch to the pampering they truly deserve with Woofie’s of the Denver Foothills!