Do reptiles make a good pet?

Recent news articles report a rise in the interest of keeping reptiles and amphibians as pets since the popular new BBC series presented by David Attenborough, Life in Cold Blood. Reptiles and amphibians are fascinating creatures, with an awesome diversity of strategies for adapting to their environment. Consequently they have exacting care requirements too, and buying them as pets on a whim can result in possible suffering and eventual catastrophe for owner and pet alike.

Shy creatures

The majority of reptiles are vulnerable to predators, and therefore quite shy. Holiday makers abroad will recollect that lizards are usually spotted darting from sight or freezing to minimise the risk of detection. Excessive handling can be detrimental to reptile welfare. Even larger snakes, such as the Ball Python, can suffer stress in captivity if they lack a hiding place.

Many reptiles are at least partially dependent on external heat sources, and also require UV-B light for metabolism of Vitamin D. Without light of the correct wavelength, healthy bones cannot be maintained. Novice owners may fail to appreciate the importance of correct lighting so, sadly, skeletal problems are very common in captive reptiles. They like a heat source for basking, but unless carefully selected and combined with correct ambient temperature, heat sources can produce serious burns. 

So should you have a reptile as a pet?

Consider it carefully. You will need to do a great deal of research and be prepared to buy and regularly replace equipment, such as lights and heaters. Reptiles are not cats or dogs; your local vet is unlikely to have in-depth knowledge of reptile health, so locating a specialist vet is desirable. Also, who will be responsible for the welfare of your pet whilst you go on holiday?

Finally, why do you want a reptile? Whilst they may not offer the same level of companionship of a cat or dog, they are living creatures, sensitive and capable of suffering, and certainly not an ornament or fashion accessory to be bought on a whim.

26 February 2008