Guidelines for Keeping Spiders as Pets
Some animals are dangerous to humans, and for this reason, extreme caution must be exercised when handling or caring for these animals. Many spiders are venomous and through their bites can inflict varying degrees of harm upon humans and animals. For this reason, owners and potential owners must be aware of the danger posed by having spiders as pets and make efforts to reduce these risks.
Permits
In the Northern Territory, many native animals are protected under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act and therefore cannot be kept as pets unless the owner holds an approved permit to keep that animal (unless it is on the exempt species list). Some native animals are listed on the exempt species list, meaning that a permit is not required to keep these animals. However, import and export permits are still required and due to these animals being protected it is illegal to take these animals from the wild without an approved take permit. (All wildlife requires import, export and take permits regardless of whether or not they are listed on the exempt species list).
A number of spiders have been listed as threatened in the Northern Territory, making it an offence to remove these animals from the wild. For this reason, owners are strongly recommended to keep only those animals that have been purchased from a pet shop (proof of purchase is required to be kept).
The Northern Territory Government promotes leaving native animals in the wild, however it is understood that some individuals wish to care for injured native animals.
Permits are not issued to keep injured or orphaned animals on a permanent basis. A Wildlife Carer’s Permit may be issued to allow for the temporary care and rehabilitation of animals for eventual release. These permits are issued upon completion of recognised training in animal husbandry and care. People finding an injured or orphaned animal should contact their nearest wildlife rescue organisation or Parks and Wildlife office for advice.
Native animals require similar standards for food, hygiene, shelter and conditions as domestic pets. Moreover, in some cases, native wildlife may require more attention or greater requirements than other domesticated pets. It is important that individuals considering keeping native animals as pets consider these needs carefully before they make a decision, because in some cases, despite the best intentions, native animals have suffered from neglect (e.g. Starvation, disease) because owners have not understood the needs or symptoms of the animal.
Requirements
Many spiders have specific requirements for temperature, humidity, light, habitat and nutrition. Be well informed about the needs of your pet before you buy it. As a general rule, you want to mimic the animal’s natural environment as much as possible. However, it is important not to solely rely on the information that you obtain from the pet shop.
Housing
Most spiders are capable of climbing and escaping through small gaps, so it is important to ensure that the enclosure is well sealed but provides enough airflow for the animal. Thus, all aquariums or containers should be sealed with a lid or cover, preferably one with small holes in the top. Soil or other substrate should be placed on the bottom of the enclosure, along with sticks and other debris – this will provide the spider with things to crawl over or hide underneath. Do not leave the container in the sun. Position it in a well lit, warm, shaded area
Feeding
Spiders are predators. Their common food items include crickets, bees, moths, grasshoppers, butterflies, and flies. Whilst pet shops will often sell insects for spiders, if you choose to collect food items yourself, it is important to be sure that these insects were not sprayed with insecticides; otherwise you may kill your pet! Usually spiders require feeding once or twice each week; however this will depend on the species and size of the spider, so ensure that you have information specific to your pet spider.
Water
Water needs also vary according to the size of the spider; however plastic bottle caps or shallow bowls will serve as water dish. Alternatively, a soggy piece of cotton wool will also provide a spider with sufficient moisture. Never spray the cage or enclosure.
Handling
Consider the following:
- Instead of rushing to handle any wildlife, take a moment to assess the situation and observe the behaviour of your pet. You may avoid an incident by recognising that your pet is stressed, anxious or poised to strike.
- Do not handle these animals any more than is absolutely necessary. Many animals do not like to be handled, and excessive handling will lead them to become aggressive.
- When required, handle dangerous wildlife gently and with respect. This will reduce the likelihood of the animal becoming aggressive.
- If you are bitten or stung by a venomous pet, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. The damage caused by the venom will increase over time, so waiting to see if you show symptoms is not a good strategy. Remain calm, sit quietly and await the arrival of an ambulance.
Health
Spiders are relatively susceptible to fungal, viral and bacterial infections, making it even more important to wash your hands well before handling them.
Most spiders have a relatively short life span.
