lizards on a log

People with limited living quarters may find that reptiles such as lizards or turtles fit perfectly into their lifestyles. Before deciding on a reptile, learn as much as possible about them and their needs. Poisonous snakes and certain reptiles should never be kept as pets. Ask your veterinarian about the suitability of a particular animal before you make your decision. There are many things to consider before committing to a reptile as a pet. 

Finding out if a Pet is Legal Where You Live
Many areas have enacted laws pertaining to keeping reptiles. Some are general and some are quite specific; in many places any reptiles that are considered dangerous (venomous snakes, alligators, etc.) are illegal but some places are even more restrictive (for example, in some states all constricting snakes including ball pythons are illegal).

Salmonella Risks and Prevention
All reptile owners need to be informed about Salmonella infections. While the risks shouldn't keep most people from keeping reptiles since with the proper management the risks are minimal. Still, owners should be aware of the risks, and the US Centers for Disease Control recommends that certain risk groups should be careful about contact with reptiles and amphibians.

The Importance of Light and Heat
Many problems with keeping reptiles can be traced back to not providing the proper environmental conditions, particularly heat. Proper lighting is also important for many reptiles. The equipment to provide the proper heat and light to captive reptiles is often quite expensive, but is absolutely essential to keeping pet reptiles healthy. It is important to find out exactly what conditions your reptile needs and never cut corners when it comes to meeting those conditions!

Why Choose Captive Bred Reptiles
There are numerous reasons why you should pick a captive bred reptile if at all possible, as explained here.

How to Pick a Healthy Reptile
It is important to keep in mind that depending on where you get a reptile, it may be very stressed, dehydrated, and prone to illness. Here are some items to look for when buying your reptile to increase the chances of picking out a healthy pet reptile.

While there are many types of reptiles that could be good pets, here we cover a few you could consider.

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Office Hours

Statutory and Provincial holidays - Closed

Monday:

8:30am

6:00pm

Tuesday:

8:30am

6:00pm

Wednesday:

8:30am

6:00pm

Thursday:

8:30am

6:00pm

Friday:

8:30am

5:00pm

Saturday:

Closed

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Closed

Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Absolutely amazing place! If it wasn’t for the staff and Dr my boy Virgil would not have come home! Can’t thank them enough for getting my cat healthy again!!"
    - Holly Warren
  • "Winchester is always taken care of really well there & he just loves going to visit his ‘girlfriends’ lol
    They’ve even gone so far as to call us at home after any procedures he’s had, to check up on him & see how he’s doing. Always very caring, gentle & if Winchester himself loves it, that’s good enough for me.
    They’re the best place I’ve taken any of my pets to, hands down."
    - Danielle Couffon
  • "I've been taking my cat here for years and everyone there is very caring. My cat has had a lot of medical issues and they have always done their best to treat her, including free check-ups and sometimes not charging for certain things they would normally charge me for. They always call a few days after each appointment to check on Cinder. Couldn't ask for a better vet!"
    - Crystal Peters