Care of reptiles can be easy when you know what you are doing but unfortunatly reptile also are really easy to screw up badly and people usually don't realize it until problems have become severe. Reptiles need to be kept in clean and proper enclosures. Many of them require special UVB lighting as well as heat lamps producing proper temperatures for the species as well as a heat gradient so that they may maintain their proper metabolism. Any heating equipment and especially hot rocks can be dangerous and should be used responsibly to prevent not only injury to your reptile but also fire. Research of the species you are keeping is absolutly essential. You must be able to provide it with adequate space, security, food and other necessities. You must know what your reptiles requirements are and how big it will become etc. to provide a good life for it. When caring for reptiles, human health should be as much a concern as that of your reptiles. Be aware of salmonealla and how to prevent it with common sense cleanliness habits. Also be responsible if you keep any animal capable of inflicting serious harm on a human such as giant snakes or highly venemous reptiles. Always observe proper safety protocols with these animals and keep them in secure cages.
By taking on the care of a pet you have become the keeper of a life not an object and as such you have a hefty responsibilty on your shoulders. Pets cannot provide for themselves and as their caretaker you must make sure they get what they need including medical care if it is needed. Never ever think of your pet in terms of how much you paid for it. It is a life and you cannot put a monitary value on a life. If you cannot meet the responsibility you owe your pet by taking on its care then you should not have a pet.
The Good Herper Agreement
As a good herper I agree to:
Thoroughly research every type of reptile I take into my care and provide it with all its basic needs and as much more as possible.
Seek out a veterinarian's help whenever my reptile has need for medical care beyond my ability.
Never abandon my pet to death, shelter or wild. If I can no longer provide the care it needs I will find it a good new home.
Sign Click here to send an email with the subject "CROC good herper" which includes your name, city and province so that your name may be added to the list below.
List of Signees
Amanda Fenrick, Pitt Meadows BC
Ryan and Sheila Wunsch, Leader Saskatchewan
Katie Sheard and Ryan Rothert, Edmonton Alberta
Kattia Carrasquilla, Coquitlam BC
Vanan Kesavan, Coquitlam BC
Keith Harcus, Langley BC
Ryan Rumsby, Welland Ontario
Dean Harper, Olds Alberta
Greg West, Calgary Alberta
Murray Jones, Langley BC
Leah Felling, Abbotsford BC
Gail Anderson, Langley BC
Gail Watson, North Vancouver BC
Laurie Emerslund, Burnaby BC
Jenn Christison, Chiliwack BC
Kevin Fenrick, Pitt Meadows BC
Greg Fletcher, Vancouver BC
Megan VanRheenan, Richmond BC
Tony VanRheenan, Richmond BC
Amelia Goodone, Coquitlam BC
Carlin Patterson, Vancouver BC
Amy Witt, Chiliwack BC
Dave & Andrea Smith, Lake Errock BC
Ryan Wilker, Coquitlam BC
Giovanni Di Marco, Brampton Ontario