October 21st is Reptile Awareness Day! While our scaled pals may not be right for everyone, they can really make great pets. Reptiles do have some specific care needs, however. It’s also very important to make responsible choices when adopting them. In this article, a Bowmanville, ON vet discusses reptiles.

Benefits of Reptiles

There are many things to love about reptiles. Snakes, lizards, and other reptiles are very beautiful, and can be fascinating to watch. Plus, their habitats can make very pretty decorative pieces. They’re also quiet, don’t need any training, and won’t chew up your shoes or stain your carpet. Last but not least, they are a great choice for people with allergies.

Things To Consider

Taking care of a reptile is quite different from caring for a dog or cat. Don’t expect your scaled pet to be very affectionate. While some reptiles don’t mind being held, they aren’t usually very cuddly. You may also need to provide specific environmental conditions. The equipment needed for this will use power, which may increase your electric bill. Finally, make sure that you can stomach feeding your pet. Many of our scaled patients eat things like bugs and mice.

Learning Curve

Adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment, no matter what type of animal it is. Be sure to do plenty of research before deciding to adopt a reptile. Two things to look at are your potential pet’s expected life span and their dietary needs. Another thing to consider is how big your scaled pal will get, and how much space they will require when they are fully grown. Some reptiles get very large, and need a sizeable enclosure or even their own room. You’ll also need to find out about common signs of illness. It’s also very important to find a good veterinarian that treats reptiles.

Choosing A Reptile

It’s very important to buy only captive-bred reptiles, and to go through reputable breeders or pet stores. Unfortunately, it isn’t uncommon for rare or even endangered species to be available for sale. Wild reptiles are very vulnerable to being captured and sold as pets. This is harmful, both to the animal and their natural habitat. Ask your vet for specific recommendations. Do you have questions about caring for reptiles? Please call us, your Bowmanville, ON vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!