How to Choose the Right Pet Reptile for You

1. Keep Lifespan in Mind

Consider where you are at in your life, and what your plans are for the duration of your desired pet’s lifespan. You need to be certain you can provide them with care for the rest of their life.

1. What Kind of Diet Are You Comfortable Feeding?

There is a lot of research that goes into the specific dietary needs of reptiles, and it is essential for their overall health and well-being that they are fed a well-balanced diet for their size and age.

3. How Much Do You Want to Handle Your Reptile?

Reptiles aren’t your typical cat or dog that will love to be handled and snuggled. These animals do not have the same type of emotional processing as seen in mammalians. Each species is unique, though, and will vary in overall sociality and handleability.

4. What Size Reptile Do You Want?

You need to consider what size of reptile you are looking for and how much space you have available to house them. Certain reptiles can get very large and require much more room than most people have to spare. 

5. Consider Habitat and Husbandry Requirements

Habitat and husbandry are going to be very important aspects of keeping your pet reptile healthy and thriving. This is very specific to each species so you must do your research on what kind of environment they need.

6. Look into the Legalities of Ownership

While not all reptiles will be legally restricted, certain species may be prohibited by state or local law or could require certain permits to keep.

7. Consider Your Current Skill Level

If you are brand new to the reptile world, it is highly recommended that you opt for a beginner-friendly species so that you can get experience.