Selecting a Pet. When selecting your pet, look for clear eyes and a dry nose and mouth. Turtles and lizards should have all their toes. Lizards and snakes shouldn’t be missing scales. Missing toes and scales indicate the animal has been in a fight and may need treatment.
Habitat. An aquarium is suitable for most reptiles. The aquarium should allow your pet plenty of room to move and grow. Provide a branch to satisfy a snake or lizard’s need to climb and sleep in trees. The decorative houses/castles used in fish aquariums are perfect for snakes and small lizards who love to hide. If your
turtle lives in the water, provide an area for it to dry and warm itself. Clean your turtle’s water every day to remove old food particles and waste. There is a wide selection of materials to cover the bottom of aquariums, such as indoor-outdoor carpet, special shavings or bark. Remove droppings daily and clean the aquarium with soap and water weekly. Do not use bleach or ammonia; the fumes are harmful to reptiles.
Temperature and Light. Temperature directly affects your pet’s activity level and digestion. Consult a pet care book or our staff regarding the proper temperature for your pet. Then invest in a good thermometer. A heating light will keep your reptile warm, but you’ll need a special UV ray producing bulb to help your pet absorb vitamins and calcium. Most snakes do fine at room temperature. If you notice your snake isn’t eating or isn’t active, provide another heat source.
Food. Turtles and most lizards eat meat and plants. There are exceptions - iguanas eat only fruit and vegetables. Snakes only eat meat. Our staff can recommend what your pet should eat.
