If you're like me, then you don't really have the luxury of keeping a high-maintenance pet such as a dog. Even a less demanding pet such as a cat might be beyond your time constraints. Fish tanks can be difficult too, since it's easy to under-estimate the time and effort involved in keeping them clean. So what options do you have?
Well, you could try a snake or one of the hardier lizard varieties. My personal favorites, however, are tarantulas. That's right-those big, hairy, eight-legged freaks.
Contrary to popular belief, tarantulas are really not deadly; in fact, there are no known instances of anyone dying from a tarantula bite. In addition, most of the pet store specimens that you'll encounter are exceedingly docile, and will generally not bite unless they are severely provoked.
The most common variety available is the Chilean rose hair tarantula (Grammastola rosea), which is notoriously gentle and easy to handle. It is also known to have fairly mild venom, and almost never bites. Other docile and readily available species include the Honduran curly hair tarantula (Brachypelma albopilosum) and the Guyana pinktoe tarantula (Avicularia avicularia).
Unlike a dog or a cat, these animals do not require much care. They can go for weeks without food or water, although regular care is still recommended. They do not generate much waste either, and so cleaning their cages is easy as well. Some species do have rather specific humidity requirements, but the most common pet store varieties are not so demanding. They also require very little space, and most of them can be kept in plastic shoebox-sized containers. Make sure that their lids fit tightly though, since these animals can be quite good at escaping.
I do recommend reading up on tarantula care, so as to learn the proper care requirements for the specimen that you choose. Be aware that some species can be quite aggressive, and are not recommended for beginners. These species are less commonly available though, and are generally obtained via mail order. If in doubt, start with a Chilean rose hair, as this is an excellent beginner species.
Owners should be aware that even within docile species, there can be some individuals that are more aggressive than others. In addition, there is always the possibility of an allergic reaction if you are bitten. In theory, this could result in a potentially fatal anaphylactic shock, although I am not aware of any circumstances in which this has actually happened. For these reasons, new owners should learn how to read a tarantula's body language, and should stay away from species that have a reputation for biting without provocation.
Also, do remember that you never have to actually hold the tarantulas-just as you never have to actually hold your aquarium fish. I recommend reading up on handling techniques, so that you can move the animals around without having to touch them. This can be helpful for those who are squeamish, or who simply wish to be cautious. When in doubt, err on the side of safety.
If you're not intimidated by the prospect of keeping one of these wondrous creatures, then I recommend them highly. They can be quite addictive, and they never fail to entertain.
About The Author
V. Berba Velasco Jr., Ph.D. is a senior electrical and software engineer at Cellular Technology Ltd (http://www.immunospot.com, http://www.elispot-analyzers.de, http://www.elispot.cn). The neighborhood children have referred to him as the "Crocodile Hunter" though, due to his impressive menagerie of magnificent arachnids.
![]() |
|
![]() |
|
![]() |
|
![]() |
Just say the word cancer and any of a host... Read More
You've picked out the perfect puppy. You spent hours on... Read More
There seems to be an alarming trend to have cats... Read More
Cats need only be provided with decent shelter, food and... Read More
You've probably had a day or two when you felt... Read More
The large animal organizations and the public money.It is said... Read More
"Your cat has feline diabetes." If this is your vet's... Read More
Our dogs are now, more than ever, a very important... Read More
Pet adoption is a fabulous option if you're seeking a... Read More
Internet Fraud, Classifieds Scams, Abuse and Suspicious Replies are world... Read More
Which is the noisiest species of all? Nope, not the... Read More
The information in this article is based on the successful... Read More
The American Kennel Club recognizes 150 different dog breeds. There... Read More
Without agility, the most muscular person in the world couldn't... Read More
I'd like to talk to you about pet vaccinations. I... Read More
As much as you may love your cute, new puppy,... Read More
For some 25 years I have alerted the public to... Read More
If there is an art to getting horses to load... Read More
Domesticated cats have been gaining in popularity in the United... Read More
Most parrot people are aware of some of the basic... Read More
With all the companionship and love that our dogs give... Read More
One we must regrettably share with our children for they... Read More
Many chronic diseases commonly seen in pets result from immune... Read More
Let's say you've made up your mind on the breed... Read More
The most common dog problems:Dog Owner's commonly ask me the... Read More
When it comes to the art of giving, a gift... Read More
The most important thing to remember in analyzing the behavior... Read More
Dogs are a fantastic edition to any family but like... Read More
A well-train dog usually leads a happier and healthier life... Read More
For most cat owners, training their cat to use the... Read More
This is an 11 step guide to setting up a... Read More
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. They're also very inquisitive... Read More
If you've ever watched as a cat "flipped" over fresh... Read More
Gain some insight into how your favorite feline actually feels... Read More
Why does one breed appeal to a person over another?... Read More
How many times have I hear fellow dog owners say,... Read More
Teaching your dog to heel is one of the most... Read More
Talk to the animals?Yes.And what's more, they talk to us!If... Read More
An essential to your dog's health is his/her regular annual... Read More
A dog, like a human baby, experiences the world through... Read More
Which cat food should you feed your cat to be... Read More
Find a vet, if possible, who specializes in small animals... Read More
I get a lot of horse training questions about stopping... Read More
Cockatiels are one of the most lovable pets in the... Read More
Some people have horses they don't dare tie. Why? Because... Read More
Your dogs health is important to you. You show her... Read More
Domesticated cats have been gaining in popularity in the United... Read More
As we love to have a comfortable place to sleep... Read More
Proper training of your dog should begin when he is... Read More
Scottish Terriers are short-legged dogs, at a height of ten... Read More
Of all the parasites a dog can catch, worms take... Read More
Canine mastitis is a breast infection in brood bitches, usually... Read More
"Dogs have owners; cats have staff," and I have worked... Read More
I would like to write a few words about my... Read More
Every year, many cat owners decide to get their cat... Read More
The first thing to realize when you are training a... Read More
Your poor pooch is scratching himself all over. Plus, you... Read More
"On Trust" & "Paid For" for are one of the... Read More
Dog flea control and management requires an integrated approach. For... Read More
Is your home safe for your Furr Kids? It might... Read More
Cats are known for their curious and adventurous nature. Curiosity... Read More
For some 25 years I have alerted the public to... Read More
Pet's, any kind of pet can be a welcome addition... Read More
One we must regrettably share with our children for they... Read More
Animal Communication, or telepathy with animals, is as common an... Read More
'I named all kittens, although they were all stillborn.' 'My... Read More
Pet |