Tag: exotic

As the calendar year approaches the holidays, you might have a lot on your mind. Perhaps you’re thinking about what type of pie to have at Thanksgiving, or maybe you’re wondering how big your Christmas tree needs to be to fill your place. If you’re a pet owner, especially of a cat, you know that they’re going to be near the top of your concerns. However, no matter how well of a cat aficionado you are, you may have forgotten one thing:

How do I keep my cat cozy during the holiday?

The winter weather will have a demonstrable effect on your feline friends, but there are many things to consider to make sure they are comfy.

Cats Sleep More During the Winter

The holidays fall around the same time that daylight outside becomes sparse. As a result, this can cause melatonin levels in pets to increase while serotonin levels to decrease. While the former leads to more lethargy or relaxation, the latter as a neurotransmitter affects mood regulation.

What does this mean for cats? More sleep! This is not to be a cause for concern, as sleeping is considered a show of being “content” with their surroundings. However, you can give your snoozy cat more light by placing their bed closer towards the window to get greater sun exposure.
Cats Eat More During the Winter
Not only does winter impact the sleeping pattern of cats, but it can affect their eating habits. The old adage of “eating more for winter hibernation” is not just for bears and other creatures in the wild. Cats increase their eating during his time in order to keep energized and warm during activity.

This is important to know if you’re concerned about your cats weight. Moderate your cat’s food intake during the winter to ensure that they are not overeating, and encourage more eating during the summer months when they are not as prone to eating as much. By tipping the “food scales” in this manner, you’ll allow your fluffy friend to keep a consistent weight right around the holidays.

Not All Cats Stay Warm During Winter

At first glance, you may think that a cat is able to survive against the harsh winds and snow of winter because of its fur. While this may be true for some cats, it definitely isn’t the gold standard for all. Cats with thicker fur will be able to handle it better, but species with thin fur will not be as lucky. This is especially true if they are “outside” pets or happen to find themselves out of the house.

To prevent your feline family member from getting hypothermia or other cold-weather ailments, consider keeping them inside at all times and blocking any exits that may get them out. Once inside, you can help keep them cozy with small sweaters or coats designed for them (provided the material does not irritate their skin). Not only will this add an extra layer of protection against cold temperatures, it allows your pet to take part in the holiday festivities!

Winter weather makes a wonder of us all, and that includes our pets. If you’re a cat owner and concerned about how the cold air will affect your little friend, don’t panic. By knowing how their sleep and eating habits will increase and what to do in case they do come across frosty temperatures, you can ensure that your cat will stay cozy through the holidays and beyond.

Sources:
https://www.petassure.com/new-newsletters/do-cats-get-cabin-fever-in-winter/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140528114828.htm
https://www.purina.co.uk/cats/health-and-nutrition/grooming-and-daily-care/winter-cat-care

You see them slither on the floor. You see them curl around tree branches and arms. You may even seem them stare back with an exotic confidence only reserve for nature’s most elusive creatures.

Now, imagine having this intricate animal as one of your new companions.

Snakes are more than just Indiana Jones’ biggest fear. They are reptiles that have often been misunderstood over the years among casual pet enthusiasts, but they do possess many traits that make them rival even man’s best friend. Such as…

1. Snakes Can Live for a Long Time
One of the most difficult parts about having a pet is the realization that one day they will leave this Earth. As a result, many people become hesitant about getting an animal companion. When you get a snake, those fears are assuaged, as they can live for many years. Corn snakes can live as long as ten years, while the ball python can last for up to three decades. This means that your snake can be more than just your pet, it can be part of your family.

2. Snakes are Low-Maintenance Pets
Much like cats, snakes are relatively independent in personality and therefore need little personal comfort while you take care of them. That is not to say that they are completely self-reliant since you will most likely be keeping them indoors, but they are low-maintenance in terms of housing and feeding. As long as you provide clean water, food, and a heated habitat with plenty of space to navigate in, they will be more than happy.

3. Snakes are Solitary Creatures
We all need our own space from time to time. Sometimes you just want to relax by yourself but your dog or cat may hop on your lap when you need to be alone. As mentioned earlier, snakes are independent in terms of their care, but this independence also carries over to their lifestyle. They prefer solitude, sometimes being shy when faced with new visitors. For those days when you want some “you time,” your snakes can have their own without recourse.

4. Snakes Groom Themselves
As much as we love our furry friends, cleaning up hair from the furniture or floor can be annoying and time-consuming. When you have a pet snake, you have one less thing to clean. Instead of fur, snakes have a scaly skin that undergoes shedding between two to four times a year where they leave their old skin behind as they grow a new layer. Clean-up becomes as easy as tossing the old skin in the trash.

5. Snakes Can Be Mesmerizing to Watch
Snakes have a smooth motion about them when they slither from place-to-place. Their slow pace during normal movement is a sight to behold, like watching a live piece of artwork. Having a snake can provide you with entertainment as you see it travel, wrap around its habitat, or even eat. For some people, it can be a soothing experience akin to watching rain roll down a window. While snakes should not be owned solely for personal gratification, they do give you something wonderful to witness.

If you’re ready to add a sleek, independent, and low-maintenance member to your family, consider getting a snake. With all due respect to the wonderful cats and dogs that roam the world, sometimes scales and tails beats fur and purrs.

Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/reptile/care/evr_rp_first_snake
https://www.petmd.com/reptile/care/evr_rp_snake_facts?page=2

Forget dogs or cats – Here’s why snakes make the best pets

https://www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-do-snakes-shed-their-skin
https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/why-snakes-make-great-pets.html

Going to a pet store for the first time may seem a bit intimidating. After all, you’re looking to get a new companion to play with and care for, and you want one that fits you. Will you get the peppy dog in the window? Would you rather have the sleek cat curled up in the corner?

Maybe you want something a little more unique. Perhaps you might be interested in one of nature’s most fascinating creatures: the tortoise.

Tortoises can make a fine addition to your family, but there are key things you need to know about them before making your first purchase. Such as…

1. Tortoises and Turtles are Not The Same
Despite popular misconceptions, the word “turtle” and “tortoise” are not used interchangeably. All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises. If this seems confusing, here’s just a few quick differences between the two:
Tortoises are land creatures, while there are turtles who prefer water-based environments
Tortoises are vegetarian, while turtles are omnivores
Tortoises have a heavier shell than turtles
These may seem like irrelevant differences, but they do come into play when you consider how to take care of your tortoise, such as food, shelter, and climate. Make sure that you are intent on buying a tortoise that you receive a tortoise, not a turtle.

2. Tortoises Have a Specific Plant-Based Diet
As mentioned earlier, tortoises are vegetarians, meaning that what you purchase for your new friend will be strictly plant-based. With that said, they should be eating fresh vegetables like kale, collard greens, or peppers. You can also include apples and grapes, though it would be best to keep it on the lower side compared to vegetables. For an added calcium boost for their shells, include grinded calcium into their meals. Stick with this diet and your tortoise will be thanking you later!

3. Tortoises Need Space- A Lot of It
Ideally, your tortoises habitat should match its natural environment as much as possible. It is generally considered the best approach to have them as outdoor pets. However, there are indoor solutions you can use if keeping them outside is not an option. The most common indoor approach is to use a wooden tortoise table that is 30 in. x 18 in. x 6 in. for those under five years old and 4 ft. x 2 ft. x 8 in. for older tortoises. This should give them plenty of space to roam around and not be stressed over habitat size.

4. Tortoises Need UVA/UVB Light and Heat
In addition to a tortoise table, you need to be sure that your land-dweller has plenty of light. Direct sunlight (especially during the summertime) is not advised, so you can make do with a UVA/UVB bulb to simulate the light. In addition, their natural environment involves a lot of heat, as many come from deserts and tropical rainforests. You can mimic this heat with heat bulbs on one side of the enclosure. Keeping it to one side will give them a hot spot around 95°F and a cool spot near 75°F with a nighttime temperature around 60°F.

5. Tortoises are Docile Creatures with Longevity
When you purchase a tortoise, you can be rest assured that it will not be an overly aggressive pet. In fact, they are relatively shy and withdrawn but they can be more social when presented with a playmate. There is a catch to this: pairing two males together can result in competition with both hurting each other. If you do intend on getting multiple tortoises or having someone bring theirs to your place, it may be best to have two females together or a male and female in the same space.

If you’re ready to come out of your shell as a pet owner, consider purchasing a tortoise as your new friend. By keeping their habitat, climate, and temperament in mind, you’ll be rewarded with a low-maintenance pet that may surprise you with its personality.

Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/story/whats-the-difference-between-a-turtle-and-a-tortoise
https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/reptile-care/what-do-i-feed-my-new-turtle-or-tortoise/A0082.html
https://www.thetortoiseshop.com/tortoise-accommodation
https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/reptile-care/your-turtle-or-tortoises-new-home/A0094.html
https://www.thesprucepets.com/tortoises-as-pets-1237258

Whether you’re an avid gardener or mostly enjoy the flowers on walks with your dog, it’s important to understand that certain plants can be poisonous to dogs and cats. Knowing which plants in and around your home could potentially harm your pets is a critical part of keeping them healthy and safe. Once you do, it’s easy to find pet-safe alternatives for a dog-friendly garden or indoor space.

Browse Rover’s list of poisonous plants below to learn which plants are toxic to dogs, cats, or both, along with whether they’re commonly found in the wild, in gardens, or in homes as houseplants. Pet Poison Helpline provided common symptoms to watch out for should your pet encounter one of these poisonous plants.

African Evergreen
African Wonder Tree
Alocasia
Aloe Vera

FOR A COMPLETE LIST – CLICK HERE

Important: This list is intended for educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for veterinary help. If your pet has ingested a plant and is exhibiting strange behaviors or symptoms, contact your vet immediately, or call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.

Source:
www.rover.com/blog/poisonous-plants/
www.rover.com/blog/10-safe-plants-dogs-can-add-almost-garden-right-now/

It’s your first day in the pet shop, and your eyes scan the store for your new companion. You might think that dogs can be adventurous or that cats can be low-maintenance. Yet your eyes meet something else and you smile with a sudden realization.

You want a bird.

Becoming a bird owner may seem like a way to make you stand out from the rest of the crowd, and in a way it does. However, taking care of a bird is a bit different than walking your dog or watching over your cat. It requires deep dedication and research on your part.

Such as…

1. What Breed to Get

You wouldn’t go to a pet store and buy any random dog or cat, right? You would want to know about the breed, its personality, and any drawbacks that may come with it. The same scenario applies when you get a bird. Not all birds are the same, as some are friendlier than others.

As a first-time bird owner, you may want a bird that’s on the more easygoing side. Cockatiels, for instance, are good social birds for kids and adults while conures are curious creatures with a loud squawk and a long lifespan. Think about your lifestyle and which bird can help complement it. Talk to your pet owner to see which species is ready to flock with you.

2. Dietary Restrictions

Birds have a distinct diet that ensures proper health and feature strength. What they eat can be dependent on their species, but for the most part bird diets can be divided into these categories:
Plant-eating (florivores)
Grain or seed eating (granivores)
Fruit-eating (frugivores)
Nectar-eating (nectavores)
All of the above (omnivores)
For example, the Blue-throated Macaw may eat mostly fruit, but that doesn’t mean that every bird is going to be comfortable eating berries. It’s important for you to research what type of food your future bird will eat to avoid any complications.

3. Molting

Unlike cats and dogs, birds do not have fur to shed. You might be thinking that they are cleaner creatures due to this, but on the contrary. While birds do not shed, they do undergo a process called molting, where worn-out feathers are shed in place of new features. It’s a process that can last weeks or even years depending on what type of bird you have.

That’s not cause for alarm, but it does require you to be vigilant about their care once the molting process begins.Specifically, a poor diet during molting can affect new feather health and cause abnormalities. Taking proper care of your bird during molting means that they will be rewarded with beautiful feathers and you’ll have a happier flying companion as a result.

4. Space to Live

Birds are among the most mobile pets you can have and require a lot of space to roam free. When considering what type of cage to get for your bird, you need to think about two things: the size of the cage and the space between its bars. You should optimally go for the largest size you can afford and reasonably accommodate into your home, and nifty charts like this can help you figure out what you’re looking for based on your species of bird.

Not only do you need to figure out how big the cage needs to be, you also should think about smaller details about its design that can impact your bird’s enjoyment. For example, larger birds may need bars that run horizontally in order to climb and navigate. Stainless steel designs are easy to clean while round cages can make birds claustrophobic. The main thing to remember is that you’re not just buying a container to transport your new pet, you’re also buying their home and should be treated as such.

5. Time to Fly

Without sounding obvious, birds need to be able to fly, especially if they are going to be domesticated pets. Not only does flying give birds much needed exercise that goes beyond just walking around in a cage, but it is vital for their emotional health. Flying in a safe, open area can reduce the tendency in birds to harm themselves due to stress.

This does not mean that flying is as simple as letting it free inside your home. Birds require positive reinforcement training just like you would for a puppy, and that extends to flight. Training your bird about acceptable and unacceptable flying behavior makes it safer for it to fly inside your home. With enough practice and patience, you can even train your bird to fly outside and feel greater freedom.

Owning a bird may seem daunting as a beginner, but your life will improve tremendously for it. From having a quirky companion to seeing the beauty of flight up close, you can rest easy in your decision. If you follow the steps above when thinking about your future bird, you’ll be taking home a flying friend that’s eager to be in your home.

Sources:
www.petmd.com/bird/slideshows/8-most-popular-pet-birds
www.petcoach.co/article/bird-nutrition-feeding-pet-birds-parrot-diets-and-nutrition
www.thespruce.com/importance-of-molting-386470
www.bird-cage.com/how-to-select-a-bird-cage
spring2017.iaabcjournal.org/birds-need-fly

– Summer is here and the American Pet Product Association wants pet owners to enjoy the season with their pets-

(Stamford, CT) – The American Pet Products Association (APPA) is excited to announce how their members are encouraging pet owners to get active with their pets by enjoying outdoor activities this Summer season. With longer days, there is plenty of time to enjoy the warm weather. Below are products manufactured by APPA members that allow pets to maximize their summer fun!

Dogs with disabilities don’t have to skip out on the fun at the beach. Walkin’ Wheels by Handicapped Pets helps all pets keep moving forward. Pets can join their families and partake in their favorite activities, playing fetch, running on the beach, and enjoy life again. The wheelchair is adjustable in width, length and height, helping pets up to 180lbs. Price: Start at $199.00
www.handicappedpets.com

Dogs can scream for ice cream with Greek Style Frozen Yogurt Treats by Boss Dog® Brand. Made with 100 percent human-grade ingredients with flavors that dogs love to create an irresistible treat. There are three flavors including Butter & Banana, Cheddar & Bacon and Pumpkin & Cinnamon.
Price: Start at $10.99
www.bossdogbrand.com

Boating and swimming with pets is fun but requires safety. Fashion Pet’s Life Vest gives dogs the support they need in the water. It features reflective stripes, adjustable straps, and grip handle to easily pull dogs out of water. Available in multiple sizes and includes a metal-D ring to attach a leash.
Price: $14.99-$23.99
www.ethicalpet.com

Who says outside adventures are just for dogs? Cat owners can hit the trails with the Jackson Galaxy Convertible Cat Backpack Carrier by Your Cat Backpack. The product can be used as a backpack or as a traditional carrier with a detachable shoulder strap, and the removable comfortable mat fits when used either way.
Price: $139.99
www.yourcatbackpack.com

Portland Pet Food Company is the perfect on the go snack for pets. Pet owners don’t have to worry about giving their pet enough fuel during a long hike because these pouches are packed with nutrients keeping pets energized all day. Plus, there are only 11 ingredients and they’re lightweight for easy packing.
Price: $5.99
www.portlandpetfoodcompany.com

For more information, product samples, images or interview opportunities, please contact Liz Freeman at 775-322-4022 or liz@theimpetusagency.com.

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The American Pet Products Association (APPA) is the leading trade association serving the interests of the pet products industry since 1958. APPA membership includes more than 1,300 pet product manufacturers, their representatives, importers and livestock suppliers representing both large corporations and growing business enterprises. APPA’s mission is to promote, develop and advance pet ownership and the pet product industry and to provide the services necessary to help its members prosper. APPA is also proud to grow and support the industry through the following initiatives: Pets Add Life (PAL), Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) Pets and Vets Program, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), The Pet Leadership Council (PLC), the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), Bird Enjoyment and Advantage Koalition (BEAK), and the Pet Care Trust. Visit www.americanpetproducts.org for more information.

Source:
www.americanpetproducts.org/press_releasedetail.asp?id=199

-With pets being a part of the family, National Safety Month is a good reminder to keep pets’ safety top of mind too –

(Stamford, CT) – The American Pet Products Association (APPA) is encouraging pet owners to study up on pet safety, especially during National Safety Month which is observed annually in June and focuses on promoting safety at work, on the road and in homes and communities. One can never be too prepared when it comes to the safety of family and that includes furry, scaly and winged family members. Staying informed and having the appropriate products available to keep pets safe is the first step to helping prevent accidents from happening and minimize risk. Below is a round-up of products manufactured by APPA members to help keep pets safe throughout the year.

The Reflective Kitty Holster Safety Vest by Crazy K Farm takes an extra step to keep cats safe during walks. For cats who are trained on a leash, they can now feel safe and secure with the harness even at night. The added reflective feature helps cats be seen from far away at night.
Price: $28.95
www.crazykfarm.com

Dogs love car rides and now they can safely enjoy them with the Deluxe Pet Safety Seat by PetSafe®. It uses Safe-T-Core™ technology, a rigid internal structure that integrates with the vehicle seat belt to provide added security, and installs securely in one minute in the front or back seat.
Price: $79.99
www.petsafe.com

Before hitting the great outdoors, grab PAWZ Dog Boots to protect dogs’ paws all-year long from dangerous surfaces. These booties maximize their time out outdoors and easily slip on without zippers or straps. Made from natural rubber, they are 100 percent biodegradable and can be reused.
Price: $14.00 – $20.00
www.pawzdogboots.com

The Bike Tow Leash offers a safe alternative to biking with a dog. The flexibility of the leash absorbs harsh jerks and allows dogs to avoid obstacles. Owners can have a smooth ride without a leash getting tangled or interfering with pedaling.
Price: $146.00
www.biketowleash.com

Have everything you need all in one kit for paws, noses and minor scratches. The Pura Naturals Healing Kit includes their Nose Rescue, Paw Rescue and Healing Aid. This perfect on-hand kit gives pet owners a fast solution in case of an accident. All products are certified USDA organic, chemical-free, paraben-free and fragrance-free.
Price: $35.99
www.puranaturalspet.com

Additional information, product samples, images and interview opportunities available upon request.

-###-

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) is the leading trade association serving the interests of the pet products industry since 1958. APPA membership includes more than 1,300 pet product manufacturers, their representatives, importers and livestock suppliers representing both large corporations and growing business enterprises. APPA’s mission is to promote, develop and advance pet ownership and the pet product industry and to provide the services necessary to help its members prosper. APPA is also proud to grow and support the industry through the following initiatives: Pets Add Life (PAL), Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) Pets and Vets Program, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), The Pet Leadership Council (PLC), the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), Bird Enjoyment and Advantage Koalition (BEAK), and the Pet Care Trust. Visit www.americanpetproducts.org for more information.

Source:
www.americanpetproducts.org/press_releasedetail.asp?id=197

Owning a pet can be a wonderful thing. They can be companions, entertaining us for days when we’re happy and pulling us up when we’re down. But what if you want something other than a cat or dog? What if you want something a little more…exotic?

An exotic bird is not the most typical pet, but it can be a benefit for the typical owner. Owning an exotic bird can be fulfilling in many ways, including…

Having Something Social to Be Around

Exotic birds can be friendly creatures to owners and their guests. From the Yellow-thighed caique to the Blue-fronted Amazon, these birds enjoy having a home that fosters interaction and play. Others have the ability to talk if trained properly, like the Indian Ringneck or the African Grey which can create full, clear sentences. If you’re somebody who may be new to an area or wouldn’t mind an extra buddy, exotic birds can be your new friend.

Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle

Birds require a very particular environment, specifically in regards to air quality. They are sensitive to smoke and potential toxins in the home. Taking care of an exotic bird can improve your quality of life by causing you to give up certain bad habits, such as smoking. In addition, their diet can include fruits like apples and cherries along with common nuts. This may prompt you to buy similar food as a way to save money and be more conscious about what you take in as a pet owner. As a result, you both can soar with happier, healthier lives.

Making You Smarter

Exotic birds like the cockatoo are very intelligent, both in play and movement. Training them is not an easy feat and requires a lot of patience and know-how. The process itself is rewarding for both of you, as you will have to rely on critical thinking and strategic behavior reinforcement to make sure you get the results you want out of your training. Plus, you have the added benefit of doing research about your bird, giving you greater insight and appreciation for it along your journey.

Having a Great Conversation Starter

According to a 2017 study by the National Pet Owners Association, 68% of households in the U.S. own a pet. From that percentage, 7.9 million homes own a bird. If you consider that only a portion of those homes owns exotic birds specifically, then you may have something that other people do not have. This can be a great ice breaker for new friends or a story starter for longtime guests eager to know how your flying friend is doing. Maybe it can even cause more people to buy their own exotic bird, which is always a plus!

Building Lifelong Adventures

These magnificent creatures can have a long lifespan. Some, like the budgies, can live for 5-7 years; others, like the Amazon, have the chance to live as many as 60 years. No matter which exotic bird you have, they can be with you for a lifetime, bringing you adventures daily with a flair that dogs and cats may lack.

Whether you’re a fan of flight or want to spread your wings socially, owning an exotic bird can be a rewarding experience as a pet owner. You may think that you’re changing the bird’s life, but it’ll change yours for the better.

Sources:
m.petmd.com/bird/top_tens/evr_bd_top10talking_birds?page=1
www.avianwelfare.org/issues/articles/NBD_shelters_before_adopting.pdf
www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-pet-statistics
exoticbirdevents.com/How-Long-Do-Birds-Live.html

Pet owners, what do you feel is the hardest part about having an animal companion? Is it the feeding, lifestyle, or training? Does cleaning up after it make you groan and sigh? What if you had a pet that was not just a good pet, but a fantastic pet?

Welcome to the wild world of exotic reptiles! Many may say that having lizards and snakes as pets are not for the faint of heart, but maybe these seven reasons will show you that your heart is bigger than you thought.

Take Your Pet Anywhere

Reptiles, especially exotic ones, need a very particular place to sleep, eat, and move around. For the most part, they are better left in an enclosure suited for their size. This may seem like a negative to those who prefer having pets free and out in the open. However, having a reptile in a portable enclosure or small habitat can mean taking them anywhere you want without risk of them running away or having negative interactions with others. Rather than worrying about your dog running away from its leash, your exotic pet is now safely in your hands.

Customize Your Habitat

Connecting to the previous point, exotic reptiles need a place that has specific heating and lighting needs due to their cold-blooded nature. They also need places to hide in and around, as constant exposure can cause stress. What this means is a fully-customizable habitat where you can let your creativity shine for your reptile. From rocks and boulders to realistic vegetation in the enclosure, it’s more ambitious and fun than simply finding holiday sweaters for your cat.

No Fur? No Problem

Unlike traditional pets like dogs and cats, reptiles do not have fur, which makes it much easier to clean up after. You can say goodbye to stray hairs on your furniture or your clothing before big events. This is perfect for those who are allergic to fur or pet dander but still want something to love. Plus, think of how much money you’ll be saving on grooming products and constant vacuuming!

Small Diet for Small Price

The diet for an exotic reptile is going to depend on the specific species you would have. Some, like geckos, can eat small crickets. Others, like pythons, may be a bit more carnivorous and need creatures such as mice for feeding. Pet owners who prefer the former can save money on food for their exotic creature instead of constantly going to the grocery store for pounds of dry food. Not to mention, you’ll also have a pet who is eating something more natural than pre-made artificial kibbles and bits.

Spend More Time With Your Friend

Getting attached to a pet can be bittersweet. While knowing that you’ll have many years with your animal companion, it can be sad knowing that they will pass on. With exotic reptiles, it can be more sweet than bitter, as their life expectancy far exceeds normal pets. Snakes can live for at least fifteen years, geckos and iguanas into their late teens to early twenties, and turtles can survive for a staggering forty years! Not only will you have an exotic acquaintance for over a decade, but you can pass it on to a family member who is looking to share in the experience, too.

Mellow Moods, But Plenty of Love

Some people like the hustle and energy of dogs, and that is perfectly fine. However, some people may need something more mellow to watch over, whether it is due to age or simply having a calmer personality. No matter what the case may be, owning an exotic reptile can be very low-energy provided that you raise it healthy and safe. This does not mean that they are without personality; on the contrary, they may show more of an affectionate personality given that they are not so expressive with movement.

No Need for Training

You may think that owning a lizard, turtle, snake, or any reptile requires a lot of training, much like you would with dogs or cats. With exotic reptiles, this isn’t always the case, as they do not require obedience commands or potty-training. Not only does this make it less stressful to own a pet, but it can time and money that would’ve been spent with trainers. Your pet reptile will truly be a reflection of you if you treat it kindly and with respect.

From green iguanas to baby leopard turtles and everything in between, owning an exotic reptile can be an experience that other pet owners will miss out on. Stand out from the rest, show your stripes and own an exotic reptile today!

Sources:
www.texvetpets.org/article/reptiles-as-pets
www.reptiles.swelluk.com/blog/advantages-to-having-a-pet-reptile
www.petplace.com/article/reptiles/general/life-expectancy-of-reptiles
www.petmd.com/reptile/care/can-your-reptile-bond-with-you
alohavegasvets.com/2016/05/15/southwest-las-vegas-nv-vet-benefits-pet-reptile