Which Reptiles Make Good Gifts?
With the holidays coming up, this is a super common question. Let’s talk about it.
We’ve all heard the stories of people giving and receiving pets as gifts for the holidays. A kiddo opens up a box to reveal the pet they’ve been begging for, and everyone cries and hugs. It’s touching to see someone so excited to start a new adventure with a beloved new pet.
Not to be a total downer, but let’s fast-forward a little bit.
More often than not, shelters experience an upswing of surrendered animals after the holiday season draws to a close. This happens for a reason. Pets who people thought they had time and energy for are brought in when the owners discover that more goes into their care than expected. How can you avoid this when searching for your new pet?
Now, we’re not saying reptiles don’t make good gifts.
They only do if you can check off all of the following:
The person receiving the pet has expressed a genuine interest in the species and has put time and effort into understanding the most updated care for said species.
You have an enclosure set up and have checked that the parameters (humidity, temperature, etc.) are consistent with the animal’s natural habitat.
You should be able to maintain these parameters over the course of a few days at the very least before bringing the animal into the enclosure.
You have obtained and assembled the necessary gear (heating, UVB, hides, etc.).
The owner has an idea of the level of effort the species requires.
This includes time for handling, feeding requirements, cleaning the enclosure, giving baths, and evaluating the sanitation of the animal & its environment.
The person receiving the pet knows that this gift is happening, and is involved in selecting the right fit.
While it feels more Hallmark to put the pet into a box under the tree as a surprise for their future owner, it’s kinder to the animal to bring it straight from its place of adoption to its enclosure to reduce the stress of the experience.
Keep in mind that being present for this part of the adoption process is part of the bonding experience for many people!
Everyone is informed about the lifespan of the animal!
Many reptiles live for a very long time. While leopard geckos and bearded dragons live 10-15+ years, other species, such as ball pythons, can live 30+ years. Turtles and tortoises can easily outlive many of us, so it’s important to know the long-term plan for your pet before adopting.
Everyone is informed about how large the animal will get!
A great example is the Sulcata Tortoise. While one could theoretically get one that is only 4 inches long for relatively cheap, these are the third largest tortoises in the world. They can get up to 80-150lbs as adults, and can live 70+ years. Not to mention, they have the capacity to tunnel into your yard (and disrupt the foundation of your house). Research is important!
You can afford to take them to the vet.
Exotic animal vets can be hard to find. Make sure you can find one in your area!
You understand the drawbacks of the reptile breeding industry on these pets, and have explored herpetological societies or reptile rescues near you.
If this one comes as a surprise, take a moment to understand why NCHS is committed to educating about the challenges that come with the reptile breeding industry.
You must be 18+ years old to own the animal in the state of Colorado.
If you are planning to give the animal to someone younger than 18, you are legally responsible for the animal.
“Okay, I have checked off all 10 of the requirements listed above. Now what kind of pet should I get?”
That depends of what kind of pet you want! Here are some species most commonly found at our rescue:
Leopard Geckos
Bearded Dragons
Ball Pythons
Corn Snakes
If you want more information about a particular animal, NCHS is always happy to provide adoption counseling to make sure you get the best possible fit. Feel free to send us a message with whatever questions you may have!