Can you get a viscacha as a pet?
Answered on : 2024-07-11
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Answer
Getting a viscacha as a pet is generally not advisable for several reasons:
### Legal Restrictions
In many countries, including the United States, it is illegal to keep viscachas as pets without a special permit. Viscachas are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), meaning they cannot be traded or transported across borders without proper documentation[2].
### Special Requirements
Viscachas have specific dietary and environmental needs that are difficult to replicate in a home setting. They thrive in certain natural habitats and may not adapt well to domestication, which can affect their wellbeing[4].
### Availability and Practicality
- **Availability**: Viscachas are not commonly available as pets. Unlike chinchillas, you cannot easily purchase them from local pet stores or online breeders[3].
- **Space Needs**: Viscachas are active animals that enjoy roaming on plains, jumping around mountains, and burrowing. They require ample space and a natural-like environment to stay healthy and entertained. Therefore, they are more suitable for individuals with plenty of land[3].
### Experience Required
- **Care Complexity**: Viscachas are less domesticated and can be challenging to care for compared to other pets like chinchillas. They are best suited for experienced pet owners who have knowledge of their specific needs and behaviors[3].
In summary, while it is possible to keep a viscacha as a pet under certain legal and practical conditions, it is generally not recommended due to the complexities involved in their care and the legal restrictions surrounding their ownership and trade. If you are an experienced pet owner with the necessary resources and permissions, it might be feasible, but for most people, a more domesticated and readily available pet like a chinchilla would be a better choice.
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