Reptile Rehoming

So you've finally made the decision that you will get your first pet reptile - but where do you even begin?

Well, thankfully it is not as hard as you originally thought.

The first factor to consider is what you can give your new pet. Account such factors as the size of the cage you can stay safe and the food you feel comfortable providing. Can you feed live insects to a reptile or a dead mouse? Or is the more you can stomach a salad?

Also consider the time you have - not just now - but try your best to make predictions about the future. Too many people buy a new pet reptile, and end up having to bring in replacement for the promotion of employment means that they are not suitable any more time or they have decided to start a family and an iguana 2 meters long is not the safest pet to have in the house with a toddler.

The last thing from your point of view of thinking is what you want with your new pet. Expect something that you can safely handle on a regular basis? Or are you looking for an animal to be in a breathtaking display in your living room?

These factors alone will help greatly to reduce the number of potential species to your hotlist, and the fact that you are new to keeping reptiles means it would be foolhardy to try to keep one of the most difficult to care for the species.

Once you have decided on the animal most likely for you, the next step is to read everything you can about it. Check out the size and type of housing needed.

Learn about what to eat and how often. Also find out where you can get the food up for you.

If possible, discussion forums or visit a local reptile shop to ask questions to experts who can ensure that you are ready for this new responsibility and exciting.

Once you feel you have a reasonable knowledge about the species you have decided to keep it is a matter of buying and setting up the box so you can be sure that everything runs smoothly before you bring home your new captivity.

This includes the installation of heaters, lighting, substrate and so on and monitoring for a period of time to ensure that the temperature and humidity are appropriate for your reptile.

When you are satisfied this is the place, it is time to actually buy your pet. Make sure you go to a pet store or a reputable specialist breeder for your pet - choose one that is captive bred rather than wild caught if possible. Captive bred animals usually have fewer problems and thus start to make better pets - not to mention the depletion of wild stocks no reptiles.

Make sure you choose a bright, an animal healthy and allow adequate time to settle into their new home before you start them out to play.

Finally, make sure you find a local vet reptile specialist so if you have an emergency, you know there is someone you can ask for professional help.