lizards on a log

People with limited living quarters may find that reptiles such as lizards or turtles fit perfectly into their lifestyles. Before deciding on a reptile, learn as much as possible about them and their needs. Poisonous snakes and certain reptiles should never be kept as pets. Ask your veterinarian about the suitability of a particular animal before you make your decision. There are many things to consider before committing to a reptile as a pet. 

Finding out if a Pet is Legal Where You Live
Many areas have enacted laws pertaining to keeping reptiles. Some are general and some are quite specific; in many places any reptiles that are considered dangerous (venomous snakes, alligators, etc.) are illegal but some places are even more restrictive (for example, in some states all constricting snakes including ball pythons are illegal).

Salmonella Risks and Prevention
All reptile owners need to be informed about Salmonella infections. While the risks shouldn't keep most people from keeping reptiles since with the proper management the risks are minimal. Still, owners should be aware of the risks, and the US Centers for Disease Control recommends that certain risk groups should be careful about contact with reptiles and amphibians.

The Importance of Light and Heat
Many problems with keeping reptiles can be traced back to not providing the proper environmental conditions, particularly heat. Proper lighting is also important for many reptiles. The equipment to provide the proper heat and light to captive reptiles is often quite expensive, but is absolutely essential to keeping pet reptiles healthy. It is important to find out exactly what conditions your reptile needs and never cut corners when it comes to meeting those conditions!

Why Choose Captive Bred Reptiles
There are numerous reasons why you should pick a captive bred reptile if at all possible, as explained here.

How to Pick a Healthy Reptile
It is important to keep in mind that depending on where you get a reptile, it may be very stressed, dehydrated, and prone to illness. Here are some items to look for when buying your reptile to increase the chances of picking out a healthy pet reptile.

While there are many types of reptiles that could be good pets, here we cover a few you could consider.

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Monday:

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Tuesday:

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Wednesday:

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Thursday:

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Friday:

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Saturday:

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Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • ""I absolutely love Bellalago Vet. I have taken all three of my cats there and have not had any problem. They are very accommodating with their appointments and get back to me within 24 hours if I have any concerns or questions. Excellent Vet and Hospital.""
    Amanda N.
  • ""Caring and affordable healthcare. Great with dogs and my cats. Fair prices and knowledgeable vet and staff. Goes the extra mile when they are sick.""
    Dawnita B.
  • ""Absolute gems at this hospital. They love your pet just like it's their own. A little on the pricey side but definitely worth it.""
    Natalie L.
  • ""I have to say that this team is absolutely outstanding! Honestly, please know that you all do an amazing job at what you do and your care, compassion and help towards the animal community is truly inspiring. I happen to know Jim has been amazing to me on multiple occasions. Please know that all the work that you do is truly meaningful and appreciated by very many people. You guys are ROCKSTARS!!!""
    Maria P.
  • ""Their the best veterinarian in this area ,and their like a family ,they treat your fur babies like if they are theirs and they have great prices""
    Evelyn C.
  • ""Whatever animal you bring to this Veterinary I'll tell you this they are in safe hands these people are wonderful the staff the doctor very respectful and very understanding explain everything to you in detail I cannot imagine bringing my dog and a place house well worth the trip wherever you're coming from.""
    Luis P.
  • ""Thank you so much for everything you do. We love and trust you with both of our fur babies. Lilo is especially familiar and enjoys going on rides to visit you guys which is a testament to how well you treat her. Thank you guys!!""
    Ronnie H.
  • ""Your veterinary hospital is, hands down, the very BEST animal hospital I’ve ever encountered.
    In all of these years, in all of these places of residence, I have never found and used the services of a veterinary clinic or hospital quite like Bellalago Veterinary Hospital.""
    Linda R.
  • "We have been going to Bellalago Veterinary Hospital for 2 years now. They simply are the best! Dr. Young and staff, are all very caring and knowledgeable. I love the wellness packages that they offer, too."
    Jennifer B.
  • "This Veterinary hospital treated my dog Sofia great. Love the customer service from when we walked in until we walked out, we were treated very well. You can tell that everyone from the receptionist to the nurses love their jobs. The doctors were also great explained everything to us and even called us after my dog had surgery to let us know how she did. I will keep taking my dogs here."
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