No, PetSmart does not sell monkeys or any other primates. Their inventory focuses on common household pets and a wide range of supplies for them.
While there might be public interest in exotic animals, major pet retailers like PetSmart generally do not offer primates for sale due to their complex needs and ethical considerations. This includes even the smallest species, such as finger monkeys, which are also known as pygmy marmosets. These tiny primates are among the smallest in the world.
Why Primates Like Pygmy Marmosets Are Not Suitable Pets
Even if they were available, pygmy marmosets and other primates are generally not considered appropriate pets for several compelling reasons, reflecting why they are not sold by reputable pet stores:
- High Intelligence and Activity Levels: Pygmy marmosets are remarkably intelligent and highly active creatures. They require an incredibly stimulating and spacious environment that is nearly impossible to replicate in a typical home setting.
- Complex Social Structures: These animals form intricate and vital social bonds within their natural family groups. Separating them from these complex social structures can lead to significant psychological distress, as they cannot thrive or be happy without their family.
- Demanding Care Requirements: Their dietary needs are very specific, and they require a specialized environment with precise temperature and humidity controls. Fulfilling these needs is challenging, even for experienced exotic animal caretakers.
- Significant Cost: Beyond the initial purchase, which can be in the thousands of dollars, the long-term cost of specialized care, veterinary attention, and appropriate housing for primates is substantial.
PetSmart's Focus on Responsible Pet Ownership
PetSmart's business model is centered on promoting responsible pet ownership by providing products, services, and common companion animals. Their offerings primarily include:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Fish (freshwater and saltwater)
- Birds
- Small Animals (e.g., hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats)
- Reptiles (selected species like bearded dragons, geckos, and certain turtles)
This approach aligns with broader industry standards that discourage the sale of exotic animals with specialized welfare requirements or those that may pose health and safety risks to owners or the community.
