Couple adopt a puppy from Craigslist but it turns out to be a baby hyena

What a wild story! It’s shocking how some people can misidentify exotic animals, especially when purchasing them online. The couple thought they were bringing home an adorable puppy, only to discover they had a baby hyena on their hands. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges and ethical issues surrounding exotic pet ownership.

The video shared by Gabriela on TikTok shows the hyena in a stressed state, which is heartbreaking. As a social creature, being away from its natural habitat and pack would understandably cause anxiety and fear. Many viewers expressed their concern for the animal’s well-being, echoing the sentiment that it deserved to be in its natural environment, not confined in a home.

While some comments leaned toward humor or fascination with owning a hyena, it raises important questions about the responsibility of pet ownership, especially with wild animals. Exotic pets often require specialized care that most people are ill-equipped to provide.

Gabriela’s decision to tag the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage is commendable and highlights the importance of reaching out to wildlife experts when encountering situations like this. It’s crucial for anyone who inadvertently acquires an exotic animal to contact appropriate authorities or wildlife organizations to ensure the animal’s safety and well-being.

The rise of the exotic pet trade poses significant risks to both animals and ecosystems. As noted, this trade is worth billions globally, often leading to situations where animals are sold without proper consideration for their needs. It’s essential for potential pet owners to be informed and cautious, ensuring they are not contributing to this troubling trend.

In the end, it’s a reminder that animals, regardless of how cute they may look, should be treated with the respect and care they deserve, and keeping wild animals as pets often leads to more harm than good.