If the idea of having a Jackson chameleon in hand, a monkey on your shoulder or a pig in the living room sounds appealing, you have been smitten by the call of the wild. Truth is, however, while many of us are drawn to unusual animals— especially when they are featured in a movie or showcased in a pet store — providing for their needs is a challenge most of us simply cannot meet.

State laws permit ownership of certain animals that are not common pets. Even in urban areas, pigs, goats and other farm animals can live with you as long as your property meets zoning requirements and the animal's enclosure is at least 300 feet from your property line. Up to two chickens or peafowl also are allowed.

Despite the fact that many types of nontraditional pets are legally permissible, these special creatures have unusual needs, many of which people do not fully understand or are not prepared to accommodate. That is why such animals often lead a sad existence — caged, chained or abandoned and left to fend for themselves.

The 4- to 5-foot ball python recently discovered in an East Honolulu garage is a perfect example of a nontraditional pet that either escaped or was abandoned when it grew too large to easily care for. Fully grown, these snakes can be as long as 6 feet. Like all snakes, they are a danger to Hawai'i's birds, which is one of the reasons the Aloha State has no aloha for pet snakes.

When the novelty of an exotic pet wears off, owners face the sobering realization that keeping a wild animal is a hardship. Medical treatment often requires specialized expertise, is expensive and may not be readily available here. Trying to meet the animal's psychological, social, dietary and habitat needs often proves overwhelming and incompatible with the owner's lifestyle.

In addition to the hardships the owner encounters, wild or exotic species — even individuals that were captive-born or hand-raised — are simply not adjusted to life with people. By their very nature, wild animals are not domesticated, and even the tamest individuals retain instincts and habits that can lead to trouble, ranging from nuisance behavior to destructiveness and even bodily harm.

In contrast, cats and dogs have evolved into good pets thanks to thousands of years of domestication. It is estimated that it took at least 5,000 years for wolves to evolve into dogs. The first evidence of pet cats dates back 9,500 years.

So the next time you or someone in your family gets smitten by the latest pet craze, consider a true companion animal such as a cat, dog, rabbit, guinea pig or bird that comes from a family that has spent thousands of years learning to live comfortably with people.

ADOPTABLES

EDGAR

Tag No. 72548. He weighs in at 6 pounds! Edgar is a lover, not a fighter. This attractive, striped cat is calm and enjoys affection. He already has a microchip ID, but if your pet doesn't, get one during August for just $5.

BARNEY

Tag No. 72268.

At just 8 months old, Barney is still a pup. This strong Lab/mastiff mix is very confident and active. He would be a wonderful pet for someone who will take the time to train him using positive reinforcement.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open 7 days a week. For hours, directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www.hawai ianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals.