Due to a Minecraft-inspired craze, children have been requesting their parents get them an axeolotl for Christmas. But the RSPCA has warned against the purchase of endangered species as pets.
This charity urges potential owners to inquire about exotic amphibians. They are Mexican natives and have complex needs. It will be difficult for their care in a home environment.
According to RSPCA, there is a growing interest in buying the animals. It’s partly because of their introduction in June to Minecraft. Minecraft allows you to build structures with raw materials and interact directly with animals such as axolotls in an open space with your friends.
The animal’s popularity within the game, which has 140 million active players worldwide, is evident from their frequent appearances in popular Minecraft players’ YouTube videos, with some raking in millions of views.
Mumsnet, a parenting forum has received a flood of discussions from pre-teens about pets or axolotl themed gifts as a Christmas gift.
However, the RSPCA has warned parents not to allow their children to ask for exotic pets or pet axolotls this Christmas.
RSPCA has urged potential owners to consider axolotls. These Mexican-native animals are known for having ‘complex health needs.’ It will be difficult to provide the proper care they need in a home environment.
Mumsnet, a parenting forum has received a flood of discussions regarding pre-teens wanting pets or axolotl themed goodies as gifts this winter.
In a statement, the charity stated that “Unfortunately many people don’t realize how big a commitment exotic pets and axolotls are”
“We think that the decision not to buy one is too important. Intuition-buying could lead to pets suffering, as well as inability to take proper care of them.
One YouTube video from user ‘OMGcraft – Minecraft Tips & Tutorials’, which teaches viewers how to get a pet axolotl in the game, has more than 1.3million views.
A video of GeorgeNotFound titled Minecraft But My Friend IS An Axolotl’ has received more than 20million hits.
Mumsnet revealed that 10 year-olds are asking their parents for a list of Christmas gifts. One Mumsnet post said that they were being pestered by parents to have axelotls as pets.
One user commented: “My dear daughter, 11 years old, has been harassing me about an Axolotl.
Another commented, “My 10 year old niece wants an axeolotl.” This must be what’s in fashion.
One third said: “I have two obsessions with Minecraft and they want an Axolotl, too.”
Ros Clubb, RSPCA senior scientific manager said that exotic pets can be difficult to care for because they are subject to the same environment, diet, and behavioral requirements as wild relatives.
“We are especially concerned about new pet trends, such as the axolotls. Exotic pets can end up in the care of our staff later on when owners realize they are difficult to take care of or after the novelty has worn off.
“Playing in Minecraft with an amphibian is one thing. But caring for an actual live amphibian is another. The amphibians require care throughout their whole lives. This can include 15 years, long after they have fled the nest.
Dr Clubb stated that they must not only invest in the best set-up but also have regular water changes and veterinary care. This can be a significant commitment. These should not be managed, because they will still be of interest months or even years down the road.
RSPCA cautions against the ‘axolotl/Minecraft phenomenon,’ which could lead to similar results as other media-related trends.
Popularity of the Minecraft animal is apparent in its frequent appearances on YouTube.
According to the charity, “For example, in 2009 after the Compare the Market ad was released, meerkat calls for our cruelty- and advice-line line increased by 184% the year following the advertisement.”
“Similarly, the trade of terrapins increased after the movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was released. Trade in iguanas also rose following Jurassic Park’s release. Clownfish trade has seen an increase following Finding Nemo.
“The axolotl problem highlights the shortcomings of current laws and needs urgent revision,” said Born Free.
Dr. Clubb said, “Exotic pets shouldn’t be bought on impulse.” Owners should ensure that their pet is comfortable in the home they choose and have sufficient financial resources to support a healthy lifestyle.
“We recommend that potential owners read books by experts about the species they want to keep, and join societies with experienced keepers who are able to help them if needed.” She added: The owners can get great advice and support by specialist vets.