Are you an animal lover with deep pockets? Do you want to own a unique and exotic pet that will make your friends envious? Look no further! In this article, we will explore some of the most expensive pets you can buy. From rare breeds of dogs to exotic birds and reptiles, we’ve got it all covered. So, let’s dive in!
10. Sir Lancelot Encore
Sir Lancelot Encore is a cloned Labrador Retriever that was created in 2008. He is a genetic copy of his predecessor, Sir Lancelot, who passed away in 2006. In 2009, a Florida couple spent $155,000 to clone their beloved Yellow Labrador, despite opposition from animal rights groups, veterinarians, and biologists.
A South Korean company used DNA from the couple’s dog, Lancelot, and inserted it into an egg from a surrogate dog. Although millions of cats and dogs are euthanized in animal shelters every year, some people are willing to pay a premium for a clone of their pet rather than adopting from a shelter.
Sir Lancelot Encore was a cloned Yellow Labrador Retriever who was created in 2009 by a South Korean company called BioArts International. The company used DNA from a dog named Sir Lancelot, who was owned by Edgar and Nina Otto of Florida, to create the clone. Sir Lancelot Encore was the second dog to be cloned from Sir Lancelot’s DNA, as the first clone did not survive long after birth.
9. Hyacinth Macaw
Elevated avian creatures such as the Hyacinth Macaw are frequently admired for their striking chromaticity. Nevertheless, it is paramount to acknowledge that avians are notably demanding to tend to despite their deceptively easygoing demeanor. They are capable of attaining a height of 40 inches and possess an expansive wingspan of 60 inches.
The creatures are mild-mannered and intelligent, but their vocalization skills are not their forte despite their tendency to vocalize loudly. They are known to have an average lifespan of 50 years, hence acquiring one necessitates a long-standing commitment.
The cost of these feathered beings fluctuates between $6,500 and $14,000. A minimum of $2,000 is required to construct a spacious aviary, allowing the bird ample opportunity to take flight. In addition, an estimated $60 is required monthly to purchase sustenance comprising of nuts, berries, and seeds.
8. Palm Cockatoo
The palm cockatoo is a stunning bird that is native to Australia. These birds are known for their impressive crests and their ability to mimic human speech. However, they can be challenging pets, as they require a lot of attention and can be destructive. A palm cockatoo can cost up to $16,000.Palm Cockatoos are a highly sought-after and expensive species of cockatoo due to their rarity and unique features.
These birds are known for their loud and diverse vocalizations. However, the breeding process for Palm Cockatoos is challenging, which contributes to their scarcity. Additionally, their natural habitats are disappearing due to human development, making it even harder for them to breed and survive in the wild. As a result, Palm Cockatoos are a prized possession for bird enthusiasts who are willing to pay top dollar for them.
7. Lavender Albino Ball Python
Ball pythons are a popular pet snake, but the lavender albino ball python takes things to a whole new level. This snake has a unique lavender and white coloration and can cost up to $40,000.The ball python, also known by its scientific name Python regius, is a member of the Pythonidae family.
The Latin term “regius” from its name means royal, kingly or regal. This name is fitting for the ball python as it is a highly sought-after and popular species of snake in the pet trade. The ball python is called so because it has a tendency to curl up into a ball when it feels threatened or nervous.
6. De Brazza’s Monkey
De Brazza’s monkey is not a commonly available pet, and the process of acquiring one can be quite challenging. In addition, De Brazza’s monkey is an endangered species, and it is illegal to own one in many countries without a special permit or license. Due to these factors, the price of De Brazza’s monkey as a pet can be quite expensive. The cost can range from $8,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the breeder or seller, the age of the monkey, and the availability of the necessary permits.
As wild animals, they require specialized care and attention that most people are not equipped to provide. Monkeys need a large and complex environment that mimics their natural habitat, a varied diet, and daily enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated.
5. Chimpanzee
Chimpanzees are some of the closest living relatives to humans. They are incredibly intelligent and can learn to communicate using sign language. However, owning a chimpanzee comes with many challenges, including their aggressive behavior and the fact that they can transmit diseases to humans.
A chimpanzee can cost up to $60,000.Despite being banned in several countries, some wealthy pet owners manage to obtain chimpanzees and other apes and monkeys from smugglers.
Young chimps command higher prices because they are more adorable and easier to train, but in the wild, they stay with their mothers for up to five years before venturing out on their own. Smugglers disrupt the chimps’ development and socialization skills when they separate them from their mothers.
4. Arabian Horse
Arabian horses are one of the oldest and most revered breeds of horses in the world. These horses are known for their beauty, stamina, and intelligence. They are also incredibly expensive, with prices ranging from $100,000 to over $1 million.Arabian horses are often characterized as nervous and easily startled, but this behavior is typically a result of mistreatment or poor handling.
In reality, Arabians are known for their friendly, gentle, and reliable nature. They have a long history of serving as riding and work horses in the Middle East and have become a popular breed for various disciplines, including endurance riding, dressage, and racing. With proper training and care, Arabians can make excellent companions and working horses.
3. White Lion Cubs
White lion cubs are extremely rare, with only a few dozen left in the world. For those who hold a fascination for uncommon felines, a stunning white lion cub can be yours for a price tag of $140,000.
These lions come from the Timbavati region of South Africa, and are bestowed with a recessive gene that gives them their distinguishing white fur. However, beyond the initial payment, prospective owners must also consider the additional expenses that come with the purchase.
This includes procuring fresh meat for the cub, obtaining permits, and finding a specialized wildlife veterinarian for its care. Additionally, the construction of an enclosure to house the lion can also come at a hefty cost. It’s important to remember that lions are not suitable for domestic life and require adequate space to roam freely.
However, for those who live in areas with loose regulations on exotic pets, owning a white lion can be an attractive option for affluent landowners who wish to create their own private zoos.
2. Savannah Cat
Savannah cats are a cross between a domestic cat and a serval, an African wildcat. These cats are known for their distinctive spotted coats and their dog-like personalities. They are also incredibly intelligent and can be trained to do tricks. The Savannah cat, with its striking resemblance to a petite leopard, can set you back as much as $20,000 for a highly valued pedigree.
Despite its wild feline appearance, the Savannah is actually a hybrid breed created by breeding a Siamese with a wild Serval. These cats make excellent pets for experienced owners as they are fiercely loyal to their human companions while also being cautious around strangers. However, in certain countries, such as Australia, the cats have been banned due to concerns about their impact on the local wildlife..
1. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff was formerly positioned lower on the list of most exorbitant pets. However, in 2011, a pedigreed Red Tibetan Mastiff named Big Splash was acquired for an astounding $1.5 million, and the title was transferred to this fearsome puppy.
Nevertheless, the Mastiff’s reign was short-lived, as in 2015, another Tibetan Mastiff was sold in China for a whopping $1.9 million. This Mastiff, whose name remains unknown, is expected to remain unrivaled in terms of price for the foreseeable future.
In the past, the Mastiff breeding industry in China was thriving, but it has since suffered a dramatic downturn, causing prices to plummet. Following the closure of several breeding facilities, the colossal creatures were set free, resulting in over 100,000 feral Mastiffs roaming the rural regions of Tibet. These mighty beasts have become problematic as they attack various wildlife such as bears, snow leopards, foxes, and even humans.