A new TLC show showcases the daily life of a family who shares their home with over 80 pets. What do state laws say about having that many pets, including a few that are rather exotic? Is it safe to be living in such conditions?
Controversial Wildlife
On May 22, TLC launched their newest show that highlights the life of a rather large family. In the show, the Abrams family shares how they live their daily lives on their 16-acre farm with over 80 other “fur babies” including wallabies, llamas, camel, kangaroos, and a sloth. Some of the animals were rescued by the family, but some of them were bought.
Many were amused at the family’s unique life and were amazed to see how many different animals can live together in one space. However, several viewers of the show were rather disturbed by the living arrangements and questioned whether the animals had legal papers or were vaccinated. Some even pointed out that it could promote the exotic animal trade.
Naturally, there is also the question of whether the family is legally living with too many animals. According to state laws, most small exotic animals simply need to have a permit, but the bigger ones such as bison and other cattle require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian. Further, authorities may also restrict the possession of animals that may be considered dangerous to people or property.
That said, while the Abrams family openly shares their home to their animals, their North Carolina property is also actually a zoo where they accept visitors who wish to see exotic animals and hold birthday parties, zoo camps, field trips, and various events. Further, the family states that their facility is USDA licensed and that all of the animals’ shots are up to date.
Is It Safe?
According to Brittany Peet of PETA, it’s not exactly perfectly safe to have the animals just roam around the Abrams household, as the creatures could potentially harm the family or themselves.
“A human household is no place for dozens of animals who all have unique needs and temperaments and require expert care. In the first episode alone, the family members allow a variety of species to roam loose around the home — where they could easily injure themselves or others — and even take a baby kangaroo into town for a trip to the grocery store,” said Peet in a statement to Good Housekeeping.
