National Reptile Awareness day is Oct 21st, so I wanted to gather some key info for any persons interested in owning a reptile as a pet, or wants to improve being an owner of one currently. Consider these factors prior to purchasing or rescuing a pet reptile. This is part two of a two part series- be sure to check out the first article “ Should You Really Own a Reptile as a Pet?”
Now, you may ask – what is a reptile exactly? Simple: an animal that is cold blooded ( aka needs heat from the sun or artificially for their organs to function!). This can include lizards, geckos, turtles, tortoises and snakes as pets usually.
Here are 4 things to consider when choosing if you want to own a pet reptile or need to reconsider your set up of owning one:
UVB
Latest research says all reptiles benefit from UVB – which is need to produce Vitamin D for the pet which they need to be able to absorb Calcium. Newest research shows if you keep them indoors- all have better appropriate Calcium levels with UVB access. Be sure to be cautions sunburn ad having hiding spots for them.
“ Do your research first- know what proper lighting, heat and enclose requirements are needed” – Family Reptile Lakeland Employee
CHOOSING
Choosing a place to purchase a reptile is a key factor- not all are created equally. Be sure to speak with the caretakers and breeders, if possible. If they only speak of coloring and morphs – be sure to address the genetic medical issues that follow those certain colors and morphs as well. If they are able to speak on personalities- and treat them as individuals that is good sign of a proper facility or seller.
Also, consider asking about that specific reptiles genetic history. If the seller knows about multiple generations of the human raised pets history verses wild caught species that can be a deciding factor- as wild caught may have some unfavorable behaviors and personalities, and be illegal in some cases.
Choosing what type of Reptile should include what you are able to handle space, time and financially- the cost of food, how big of an enclosure, size of pets, are you able to feed live insects and animals, and basic husbandry supplies should all be included in your decisions- not just how ‘cute’ they may be.
There are also adoptable reptiles available trough many rescue organization or through the Exotic Pet Amnesty Program through the Department of Fish and Wildlife in Florida.
VETERINARY CARE
Do a check up with a licensed Veterinarian with any new pet for a health check and parasite check to prevent future problems . They will then guide you in yearly preventive care and answer any questions you may have. Note that most reptiles do not come with a Health Certificates like Cats + Dogs- so there are no legal guarantees regarding the health of reptiles purchased. “Unfortunately most of the issues we see are due to temp, humidity or diet. Or the fact they were never screened for parasites – which may not be seen for years. They (reptiles) take a long time to get sick, and then even longer to get better.” states Dr. Price Dickson from My Pet’s Animal Hospital in Lakeland
TRAVELING
When moving across the state or to another country- not all reptiles are legal in certain areas, states and countries and you may need a Health Certificate from a Veterinarian while traveling with them- even if just driving through. It is recommended to anyone to “see each states requirements and soon as you know you may need to travel with them.” per Dr. Price. The USDA APHIS Pet Travel Website or the website of the country’s agriculture department you plan on going are a great start to looking into what requirements they may have.
If just traveling for vacation or a weekend away- leave your pet at home and hire a professional pet sitter to care for them. It will be less stress for you and the pet- and no need for travel health certificates either. “ Look for a pet sitter team that has had training, education or persons on their staff that have cared for reptiles before” says Ashley Lee from Aussie Mom Pet Sitting who own their own Tortoise name Crush.
Amber Van Denzen Suarez, CPPS Owner
Atta Boy! Animal Care Pet Sitting + Dog Walking