The phrase denotes the offering of a domesticated silver fox, typically a color variant of the red fox, for purchase as a companion animal. This implies that individuals or organizations are involved in breeding and marketing these animals specifically for the purpose of being kept as pets. An example would be advertisements or listings indicating that a captive-bred vulpine creature with a distinctive silver-tipped coat is available to a prospective owner.
The availability of such animals signifies a niche market driven by interest in exotic or unusual pets. Owning a unique animal can be seen as a status symbol, and the animals themselves may have a certain appeal. Historically, the domestication and sale of these creatures represent an intersection of the fur farming industry and the pet trade. The practice may also raise ethical considerations regarding the welfare and suitability of certain species as domestic companions.
