The sad thing is that's usually what happens. When I decided I wanted a BP I did my research on what they need, the correct size enclosures and etc. I know that my BP will probally live till I'm over 50 years old (I'm 27 now). I have seen people buy puppies and kittens when they're cute and then just let them go out in the country when they are bigger or just chain them up in the back yard and give them minimal attention breaks my heart. Simplechamp you nailed it right on the head! Pet stores, the public and some breeders give people the wrong idea.