| This leads to problems for both humans and | | | | 5. Are you after something visually eye |
| ultimately the reptiles themselves. More often | | | | catching? |
| than not, people purchase reptiles for the wrong | | | | 6. How much money are you willing to |
| reasons. They often purchase on impulse or | | | | spend? |
| because they think it will make them look cool | | | | |
| amongst their friends. | | | | The next decision you must make is where to |
| Your decision to purchase any reptile must not | | | | purchase your reptile from. As a purchaser you |
| be taken lightly. A reptile in captivity depends on | | | | have several options and again this is a vital step |
| its owner completely. Unable to care for itself, it is | | | | in your decision making. If you choose a reputable |
| at the mercy of the caregiver and without the | | | | pet shop, don't count on their expertise. While |
| proper care, can lead to health problems and even | | | | they may sell reptiles they may not have the |
| death. | | | | experience to give you the required information. |
| To neglect responsibility as an owner can mean | | | | In some instances they are unfortunately sold |
| torture for your newly acquired reptile. If you | | | | merely as profit pieces. |
| think a reptile is incapable of emotion, maybe you | | | | It's often a wonder they even made it to the |
| should refrain from acquiring any pet. Remember, | | | | pet shop in one piece and alive. Exotic pet sales |
| there is still the element of pain and suffering to | | | | have gone through the roof, so many of these |
| be considered should it be neglected. | | | | wonderful creatures are handled wrong right from |
| Any living being deserves the right to obtain the | | | | the start. It pays to research how a healthy |
| best care possible, especially one held in captivity. | | | | reptile should look before you make the |
| The environment you provide your reptile must | | | | commitment to purchase. Just having a license |
| closely resemble the natural area in which they | | | | to sell a reptile does not make the management |
| are found in the wild. | | | | responsible people with consciences. |
| If you decide to give your pet away or sell | | | | One of the best choices you have is to |
| because it was not right for you, please make | | | | purchase from a breeder. Visit several and ask |
| sure the person receiving the reptile has proper | | | | questions. No question is a silly question. Ask to |
| knowledge of what it takes to care for and | | | | see if they keep records. If you are purchasing |
| shelter the animal. | | | | young reptiles, make sure they are eating before |
| Reptiles make fascinating pets. The experience | | | | taking them home. Make sure they are not too |
| can be rewarding and educational. The | | | | thin; this could be a sign of bad health. Ask if you |
| responsibility lies in the hands of the owner. If | | | | can handle your reptile. Make sure they are lively |
| you want a fulfilling and long lasting experience as | | | | and moving freely. |
| a reptile owner, take the time and make the | | | | If you are not 100% sure do not make the |
| effort to learn about what's involved before you | | | | purchase. Take your time. |
| purchase or accept a reptile. | | | | Remember, a responsible pet owner is not just |
| Anyone thinking about keeping reptiles must | | | | someone who loves animals. It's someone who |
| consider these factors: | | | | makes the effort to care for the animals |
| | | | | properly. There are many well-meaning people |
| 1. Why do I want to keep reptiles? | | | | who call themselves animal lovers and still don't |
| 2. How much room do you have to house | | | | have what it takes to be the right caregiver for |
| your new reptile? | | | | reptiles. You may be the perfect match for a |
| 3. What environment does the reptile come | | | | dog and far from the perfect match for a turtle, |
| from? | | | | snake or a lizard! Know your limits before you |
| 4. What size reptile will you be comfortable | | | | commit. |
| keeping? | | | | |