Owning a pet is a big responsibility, especially if it lives a long time or grows very big. Unfortunately, many owners are quick to buy cute or exotic animals but slow to develop real affection for them. Once the initial enthusiasm is spent, an animal becomes a burden.
While it may be easier to develop a relationship with a kitten or puppy, exotic pets like alligator gar, snakes, iguanas and other dinosaur-like animals are more difficult to relate to. Commercial aquarium operators say many such fish and animals have been selling like hot cakes. What happens when their owners grow tired of them is anybody's guess. Many are likely to suffer abuse and abandonment.