Exotic Pets For the Youngster?

American Academy of Pediatrics says, no to exotic pets for young ( those less than 5 year-old) children. What's exotic?
Hedgehogs, turtles, lizards, hamsters and baby chicks. Reason: these critters are more likely to scratch or claw their little friends and they can carry dangerous germs such as salmonella. In addition, these youngsters are more likely to put their fingers in their mouths. A bad combination. For more details see the October edition of Pediatrics.