Typically, the closer the pet’s requirements are to your own, the easier the pet will be to care for.  In addition, species that have lived with humans for hundreds of years have adapted to captivity.  Unfortunately, reptiles and amphibians do not fall into this category - that means you need to think extra hard about whether you can provide the specialized care your pet will need. Also take into consideration that unlike dogs and cats, many reptiles and amphibians don’t like to be handled, or are not safe to handle.

Compared to a cat, dog, or bird, it is much more difficult to tell whether a captive reptile or amphibian is ill.  The early signs of health problems in these animals are much more subtle.  We more easily recognize that a pet dog is sick because it behaves and displays symptoms similar to us (another mammal).  By the time many reptile or amphibian owners realize their pet is ill, it is too late to save the animal. Think carefully, do research, and talk to experts before deciding to get an exotic pet.

While native species may easily be acquired, it is against the law in British Columbia to keep native wildlife in captivity without a permit or a license. While it may be tempting, please remember that it is illegal to keep the garter snake from your backyard or the frog you found at the park in captivity.   While we encourage respectful observation of these unique creatures, they are wild animals, and deserve to remain within their native habitats.

There are other reptiles and amphibians that are prohibited in BC, which can be found here.

To get a reptile or amphibian you will have to go to your local pet store.  As a consumer, it is here where you can make a positive difference.  Never buy a pet that has been taken from the wild - not only is it an unethical practice that results in distress for the animal as well as ecological damage, but you often end up with a suffering reptile or amphibian that will die within a year. Herptiles do not show pain and suffering like mammals do, and you may not notice the trauma of collection and transport until it is too late.

There is no excuse for supporting pet stores or dealers that remove wild animals from their homes for profit.

Your only ethical choice is a captive bred (also termed domestically bred) reptile, preferably one of the species addressed in the articles below.  Even here, however, your work is not done.  Like any pet, you should ensure that the animal comes from a reputable breeder with humane breeding conditions - you don’t want to support ‘puppy mill’ type breeding establishments.  The best way to ensure this is to deal with a reputable pet store that is willing and able to provide you with all the information you ask for.

There are potential health problems associated with any type of pet. Reptiles and amphibians, even those considered suitable pets, are no exception. Any animal with teeth can bite if scared, hurt or angry. Some reptiles like iguanas (NOT a recommended pet) have sharp claws and strong tails that can cause injury. Some reptiles and amphibians carry potentially harmful bacteria such as Salmonella – a bacterium that can cause illness or very rarely, death. Children, seniors, and immune-compromised individuals are more vulnerable. Some amphibians produce a toxin on their skin that can be harmful to humans if ingested.

The actual cost of buying your reptile or amphibian is just the beginning.  You will need to buy an enclosure (often a large aquarium), appropriate lighting and heating devices, water filters if you have an aquatic reptile, humidity and temperature measuring devices, and enclosure accessories.  There also are the obvious ongoing expenses of food, vitamin supplements, and any necessary veterinary bills.  Then there are the expenses we often forget about - electricity to run all of the heating and lighting your reptile needs.  See Melissa Kaplan’s article for some guidance on how to calculate the cost of the necessary electricity.

First, you must consider whether your home allows pets, and if you are willing to put in the extra work to find pet-friendly housing live in the future. Then, it is important to consider whether you have a suitable spot in your home, due to the specific heating and lighting needs.  Many reptiles do best in quiet, draft-free areas with lots of natural light. Also remember to consider the size of the enclosure you’ll need - do you have a spot large enough, and the necessary furniture to support the enclosure in your chosen location? Do you have enough space and money to upgrade your pet’s enclosure as it grows larger? It is also important to properly dispose of any water or substrate used in your pet’s aquarium or terrarium, to prevent disease spread. Ensure any water is released on land and away from household drains, sewers, and bodies of water.

Depending on the type of reptile you get, you may find yourself adding crickets, mealworms, rodents, or extra fruits and vegetables to your weekly grocery list. Research what kind of diet your pet will need.  Is there a secure source of these items where you live? Are you prepared to buy, handle, and feed live insects or pre-killed rodents? If your reptile is herbivorous, do you have time to wash and prepare the necessary fruits and vegetables?

An absolute must, but something that new reptile owners often forget, is there a qualified veterinarian with reptile knowledge in your area? Someone who has experience dealing with the unique metabolism and disorders of captive reptiles?   While you may know many vets skilled in the care of cats and dogs, reptile-savvy veterinarians are hard to find, especially outside of major urban centres.  You may have to travel for hours to find an experienced practitioner.  Do your homework, and phone around.  Reputable pet stores that sell reptiles may be able to suggest a local vet.

In addition, you must be willing to spend time observing your pet and keeping its home clean.  Common health problems include skin abrasions (often from trying to escape the enclosure) and incomplete shedding.  If left too long, these minor problems can become debilitating or even life threatening.

Given the appropriate care (which should be the goal of any responsible pet owner), some reptiles can live for decades.  Can you sustain the level of care and all its associated costs for the estimated life span of your pet?

For many reptiles and amphibians there is limited information available.  That makes it even more important to do your research and find out what is out there.  You may find out what kind of microhabitats your pet needs, or some common problems other keepers have had.  Why repeat the mistakes of others?  Do the research and learn as much as you can.