The Pet Site

While most people stick with the usual domestic animals to keep around their homes, some folk still insist on having "wild" animals. Cases in point.

I have a cousin who had several raccoons over the years. With the exception of being overly curious and getting into things, she never had a problem with them being aggressive. She tried keeping a flying squirrel once but it was too neurotic and finally escaped.

Another friend enjoyed keeping skunks. As well as being able to litter box train them, about the only difference between them and cats was the bit of "whiffyness" that always clung to them even after removing the scent glands. These "country kitties" were also more inclined to want affection than your average house cat.

One guy from my hometown that I knew slightly had a male lion for several years. He had a large farm and the area "Simba" lived in was well fenced. Having been neutered and declawed he was peaceful enough that the guy 's kids never were hurt by him. The only problem came from the local government that wanted the lion to be shot. After a lengthy court battle, he finally had to donate "Simba" to a preserve out West just to keep him alive.

Any thoughts or anecdotes about "Wild" animals you have known?