Herptiles is a collective term for animals known as reptiles and amphibians. They are, in the main, very docile and have minimal odors. Consequently, they are very popular with some people who consider them to be the ideal pet.
They are a particular favorite of students, which is not surprising, as they are especially suitable as pets in small apartments and dorm rooms because they can exist in very small enclosures. Unlike some prevalent species of pets, such as dogs, cats and rabbits, it is not as crucial to ensure they are fed from day to day.
However, I am not advocating a regime whereby the animal is ignored. I am simply suggesting that if you can’t adhere to your usual consistent feeding schedule, then it is probable that your reptile pet will will survive just fine if you are away from home for a day or two. Also, herptiles need less cleaning than many other species of pets, and as such, they make ideal pets for those with an active lifestyle.
These creatures will require an enclosure or cage, the size of which is determined by their size. Needless to say, larger reptiles will inevitably require a larger cage than a small animal. If you’ve decided to keep more than a single herptile, it is advisable that you contain them according to the species types; please don’t house them in the same enclosure if they are incompatible; their lives will be miserable, at least for one of them.
I suggest you purchase a taller enclosure for those reptiles that like to climb, and a wider cage for those pets which prefer to be closer to the ground. Either way, you need to ensure that their homes are escape proof, for obvious reasons.
Apart from choosing the appropriate shape and size of the enclosure, you will have to undertake the inclusion of adequate cleaning, floor covering, heating and lighting. It is advisable to provide an area which is warm on one side, and at the same time an area which is cooler in the other. This gives your herptiles the opportunity to choose the most comfortable area they will need at any particular time. Because reptiles are not able to self-regulate their own body temperature, it is important to ensure a thermal gradient is available in their home.
Heating sources are available in many forms, and basking lamps or (ceramic) heating elements are a good choice and both provide a stable heat source for most enclosures. Of course, the ambient temperature of the room in which the animals are kept will have an immediate impact on any heat source, so please bear this in mind when setting up your pet’s enclosure.
Fluorescent or incandescent bulbs are a reliable source when providing lighting, and in many instances both light and heat will be emitted from the singular source; the basking lamp is a good example. Some animals require natural lighting whilst others will be quite happy with artificial light. In fact, fluorescent lamps are available which can emit light in the same spectrum as day light. Do make sure you have the appropriate lighting available for your chosen reptiles; if in doubt contact a specialist and buy the best reptile pet supplies you can afford, but don’t go overboard.
Finally, it is of paramount importance to fit a floor covering in the enclosure which is ‘reptile friendly. Carpet which you would fit into your home is no good for a herptile. The most important consideration has to be given to the ease of cleaning, or not, as appropriate. You need to be aware that specific micro-organisms can breed and flourish in the tiniest of places in the enclosure. Whilst a weekly cleaning of a cage will normally help to keep your pet healthy, fit and happy, it is good practice to change the water and clean the food bowls daily.
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