Britons urged not to buy exotic pets ‘on a whim’ amid welfare concerns

British Veterinary Association calls for tougher rules as vets report many pets do not have their basic needs met

The British Veterinary Association has urged people to reconsider buying exotic pets because of fears many owners are struggling to look after the animals properly.

More than eight in 10 vets raised concerns about the welfare of exotic reptiles, amphibians, birds and other animals in a BVA report, with most blaming what they called “irresponsible animal ownership”.