Shiva and Indra are fennec foxes (Vulpes Zerda or Fennecus Zerda). Fennec foxes are the smallest of canines, weighing only 2-3 pounds as adults. They are desert natives, ranging from Northern Africa into Saudi Arabia. They are well equipped for this very hot lifestyle; large ears help dissipate heat and fur-covered pawpads protect against scalding sand.
Fennecs are the most social of foxes, and while not domesticated, can thrive in captivity. When bottle fed and socialized well, fennecs can bond closely with humans. Fennecs (though not all) can be litter trained, and most are about as reliable as a ferret (if the box is available and easy to use, they will use it. If it's not, they won't). They are very agile and can get everywhere. They must be supervised at all times when out in a house. They will chew, dig, mark territory, and destroy many things. They have not been bred in captivity for thousands of years like dogs. They exhibit a wide range of wild behaviors that are not suitable for a human household.
Having a fennec fox is a big commitment. They can live up to 15 years in captivity and need daily interaction and lots of supervised time to run around the house. They do not act like dogs or cats. They interact with you on their own terms. They are not a cute, cuddly fluffy pet. They are small and effective predators. They can bite and scream and act like the wild animals that they are.
If you are interested in getting an exotic pet like a fennec fox, I highly recommend that you volunteer at a local wildlife rehabilitation center or with a private rehabber or breeder. You can get invaluable experience with the animals this way. If you don't have the time and motivation to volunteer, you don't have the time for an exotic pet, I can't stress that enough! Many people fall in love with the idea of an exotic pet, but no matter how much you read about them, you don't know what living with them is like until you have a lot of first hand experience.
Fennec Art
Shiva and Indra's Photo Gallery
