Characterization of the trade of unconventional pets in Concórdia, Santa Catarina, with emphasis on animal sanity and welfare

The aim of this study was to characterize the trade of unconventional pets in the city of Concórdia, Santa Catarina. Twelve establishments that trade animals or food were visually inspected and the respective owners were requested to fill in a questionnaire. It was found that birds are the most commercialized group (77%) in these establishments, followed by rabbits (55.5%), rodents (55.5%) and black-bellied sliders (44.4%). These animals were acquired from legalized of informal breeders and a quarantine was not usually performed. Regarding the feed, these establishments indicated seed mixtures to feed birds (91.7%) and rodents (83.3%), and pelleted feed for rabbits (91.6%) and reptiles (66.6%). These supplies were acquired either in suitable containers or in bulk. Knowledge about the maintenance of these species is still not widespread, evincing the need for employee training by veterinarians.