Fortunately, most of the countries where Orangutans originate now outlaw the trade of these beautiful, intelligent animals. There are places where they are sold, but it is imperative that potential buyers see proof that the animal is obtained from a legal source.
State, national and local laws regulating the keeping of apes, specifically Orangutans, as pets must equally be researched and observed.
It is highly likely that permissions to keep such a pet must also be obtained from state, county and/ or city governments. Before even thinking of buying an Orangutan, even from a legal source and assuming relevant laws permit it, potential buyers may want to consider the following points.
- The cute little Orangutan baby will grow into a large adult which can potentially be very dangerous.
- An outdoor enclosure of 1000 sq ft must be provided. If local temperatures are likely to drop below a tropical level, a 500 sq ft indoor enclosure must also be available.
- Both enclosures need to be a minimum of 20 ft high and incorporate horizontal and vertical climbing structures for the pet to exercise on.
- A diet of vegetables, animal proteins and mixed fruits must be fed three times a day. This should include snacks native to the pet's natural habitat, for instance mangoes or mangosteens.
- The pet's feces have to be examined regularly to ensure the diet is right and the pet is healthy.
- A vet able to pay regular visits for check-ups and emergencies has to be located. If hospitalization is required, tranquilizing the animal under vet supervision is necessary.
Keeping an Orangutan as a pet is not child's play. It requires responsibility, dedication and extensive funds. Cats or dogs are far more suitable as pets than apes.
State, national and local laws regulating the keeping of apes, specifically Orangutans, as pets must equally be researched and observed.
It is highly likely that permissions to keep such a pet must also be obtained from state, county and/ or city governments. Before even thinking of buying an Orangutan, even from a legal source and assuming relevant laws permit it, potential buyers may want to consider the following points.
- The cute little Orangutan baby will grow into a large adult which can potentially be very dangerous.
- An outdoor enclosure of 1000 sq ft must be provided. If local temperatures are likely to drop below a tropical level, a 500 sq ft indoor enclosure must also be available.
- Both enclosures need to be a minimum of 20 ft high and incorporate horizontal and vertical climbing structures for the pet to exercise on.
- A diet of vegetables, animal proteins and mixed fruits must be fed three times a day. This should include snacks native to the pet's natural habitat, for instance mangoes or mangosteens.
- The pet's feces have to be examined regularly to ensure the diet is right and the pet is healthy.
- A vet able to pay regular visits for check-ups and emergencies has to be located. If hospitalization is required, tranquilizing the animal under vet supervision is necessary.
Keeping an Orangutan as a pet is not child's play. It requires responsibility, dedication and extensive funds. Cats or dogs are far more suitable as pets than apes.