Important things to consider when keeping reptiles

Hi Everyone,

I'd like to write a little about some things to consider if you're thinking about getting a pet reptile. It often occurs in the reptile hobby, that animals are bought on a whim either because they look nice or because the owner just wants to be different from everyone else. This I think is the biggest reptilian pitfall, their sheer desirability.

My top consideration for first time buyers is the amount of knowledge you must attain. Without sufficient knowledge, all areas of reptile keeping which rely on it's application will be neglected. Reptiles need you to know.

The problem I beleive, is that aqcuring sufficient knowledge is a lengthy process which ultimately hinders the event of getting your pet, and people want things now. However, knowledge is so vital that even underestimating it's importance can result in the death of an animal. Reptilians are nothing like mammals. The entire way that they function differs greatly from your average dog or hamster, and varies greatly even amongst the reptile family!

The secon most important thing to consider is time. Reptile are not cats, and cannot be left to their own devices. Your new Bearded Dragon, will not go to the garden to defecate, it will keep its cage clean. You must consider the average time it takes to maintain a healthy environment. I would estimate that on average you will spend 1 hour per week picking poo and spraying cages per animal you have. This is a safe estimate, and seems relatively low, but given the high number of reptiles for sale because of 'lack of time' I'd guess that it's something some people can't be bothered with.

Then, there's money. Reptiles require a constant heat source, that means they must have the option to warm themselves 24 hours a day. This means that your electricity bills will rise significantly the more animals you acquire. Reptiles need to be fed specialist food items, which is easy enough. However, it is important to consider the long term factors of feeding. For example, your bearded dragon might run out of dried food, calcium supplement and vitamin supplement at the same time as it requires a new heatbulb. These costs can be quite inconvenient when they occur, and over time will add up.

Finally, the Longevity and Size of your animal are important, along with its husbandry requirements. For example, a Nile Monitor Lizard will grow to around 6-7ft long, and can be very aggressive. It may also live for several decades, meaning that it will outlive your family dog, twice. This type of active animal will need a small bedroom as its enclosure, properly converted to suit its heat, lighting, humidity, and enrichment needs. On the contrary, a leopard gecko will grow to around 10", will eat dried food and crickets for it's entire life and will only require a 3ft x 2ft x 1.5ft terrarium. This brings me back to the importance of knowledge. You must undertake sufficient research before purchasing any reptile.

If you are considering getting a new reptile then please think about the areas I've just mentioned before hand. I strongly beleive that you will benefit more from your new animal if you fully understand and appreciate it.

Until next time.

Sam