When wild or exotic animals are kept as pets, the result is usually tragic for the animal and often negative for the owner. Lack of knowledge about behavioral traits, social needs and proper nutrition may lead to inadvertent neglect. For many of the larger wild or exotic species, the cost of feed, veterinary care, handling equipment and confinement facilities may be prohibitive. The release or abandonment of non- native wildlife or exotic animals into the natural environment can create severe or catastrophic impacts to the native ecology. Federal, state and regional laws and regulations may prohibit the ownership of some animals, and some species are at higher risk to transmit diseases to humans. American Humane opposes the deliberate capture, confinement, breeding, or the hybrid breeding, of wild or exotic animals as pets and also opposes their release into non-native environments.
Position Statement
Last Updated: January 1, 2021

When Diana, a U.S. Air Force veteran, met her new service dog, Sam, her life changed forever. We are honored to have brought these two together through our #Pups4Patriots program. If you’re a veteran in need of a service dog, we are here to help: https://bit.ly/2WSQ0fp.
Accidents happen, and pets go missing. Microchipping your beloved furry friend is the best way to help ensure they find their way back home. #May is #ChipYourPetMonth, and we encourage you to protect your pets with a #microchip.
Daniel is a U.S. Marine Corps #veteran who served from 2002 to 2007 and was deployed three times to Iraq. He was paired with Ruby through our #Pups4Patriots program and says her calm presence is exactly what he needed in his life.