Are You Ready to Buy a Reptile? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself

The decision to buy a pet reptile is an exciting one. We certainly don’t blame you for wanting to run out and pick your favorite animal as soon as possible. Before you find the coolest Rainbow Boa or the cleverest Frilled Dragon, we encourage you to take a step back and ensure this is not only the best decision for you but for the animal as well.  

Are You Ready to Buy a Reptile?

In order to give yourself an honest answer to this question, it is helpful to ask yourself several other, smaller questions. You may say “I am ready!” but when you think further, you realize you need a few other things in place first. That isn’t bad news. It’s actually great to realize it ahead of time because it means both you and your new pet will be happier. 

Why do I Want a Pet?

This question can lead to really deep discovery if you think about it carefully. Perhaps you simply have always been fascinated by snakes. Maybe you want a pet, but your apartment doesn’t allow dogs. If you want a new pet because you’re bored or lonely, what happens to the animals if your situation changes?

Do You Have Enough Space in Your Home for it?

Even a small turtle or lizard is going to require a home within your home. Do you have enough square footage for their terrarium? Many reptile options, from certain lizard breeds to snakes grow once you bring them home. How big will the animal grow, and what will you do when it reaches that size? Do you have adequate space for their size now, and when they’re full grown?

Can You Afford a Pet?

It’s important to provide the proper living environment for your reptile. It can be costly to set up your reptile correctly with everything it needs at home. There will also be continual costs, like food and healthcare. If you can’t afford to take care of an animal properly, you can’t afford it.

Do You Have Everything Ready for the Arrival? 

Before you bring the pet home, buy the things you’ll need in advance. It is better to be overly prepared than completely unprepared! For different species this can mean different things, but all animals need food and a healthy environment.

Do You Have a Network in Place?

Not all vets are specialized in the healthcare of reptiles. Not all of your friends are willing to feed your snake a live rodent while you go on vacation. These are things you’ll need to consider before you buy a reptile so you ensure you have the social network in place that you’ll need to care for your reptile in the long term.

For any and all things related to your desire to buy a reptile, Jabberwock Reptiles is here for you! We have everything you need to ensure your pet is happy, healthy, and thriving- from reptile food to terrariums and much more. Having a few important reptile supplies you need to buy before you bring your new pet home can make all the difference in the transition period!