The camel

Camels As Pets - A Good Idea Or Not?

Thousands of year ago camels were domesticated and utilized in many aspects of our humans lives. Although camels are still used around the world as modes of transportation, milk production, hauling goods, etc... they have also won their way into our lives as pets.

You might be thinking to yourself, 'camels as pets?' Usually when I talk with someone about camels, the first thing they say is "don't they spit?" Well, yes they can I have been told. After years of being around dozens of camels, I have yet to ever see one spit or been spit on by a camel. This is not to say they can't, but most of the camels in the United States have been born in the US and many have been bottle raised, thus making good companions.

A few things to consider when thinking of a camel as a pet. Size... Camels get very large. It is not unusual for an adult male camel to stand more than 8 foot tall. You need to use the same caution you would when being around any large animal such as a horse, cow, or donkey.

You might be asking yourself, what do you feed a camel? Well, camels were built to survive in the harsh climates of the deserts. Thus their bodies are adapted to eating low quality grasses. Camels should be fed a good quality grass hay, careful to avoid certain hays that are very rich in nutrients which can lead to weight problems.

Camels can also be used to pleasure ride. When training is started at a fairly young age, training a camel to lead, cush, and ride is fairly easy. The hardest thing in regards to riding camels is locating a proper fitting camel saddle in the United State.

Provided you have enough room for a horse, you have enough room for a camel. Now days, camels have become more common in the United States than you might think. In some states camels are considered to be an exotic animal and will fall under their exotic animal regulations. If you are considering adding a camel to your family make sure and check your local laws regarding exotic animals and camels.

Camels were introduced into my life over a decade ago and have been a great addition to our farm. A great animal with huge personalities that will always bring a smile to anyone's face.

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