Keeping Clean with Pet Reptiles

Keeping Clean with Pet Reptiles

Many pet owners are choosing reptiles such as snakes, lizards and turtles as exotic pets. While reptiles provide many benefits for pet owners, such as being quiet and easy to care for, they also come with various risks. Due to those risks, some states limit the sale and keeping of reptiles as pets. Check with your local laws before choosing reptiles as pets. Most reptiles naturally carry bacteria, such as Salmonella, and require pet owners to use proper cleaning methods to prevent infection. Safe handling practices can limit spread of disease and ensure that exotic pets not only live healthy, happy lives, but also pose little threat to those they contact. Pet reptile habitats must be regularly and thoroughly cleaned and sanitized and hand washing is essential before and after handling reptiles. When cared for properly, pet reptiles can be a safe and wonderful addition to the home.

Snakes

Though snakes aren’t the cuddliest pet choice, there are many who find this reptile the perfect pet to bring into the home. Snakes are quiet, interesting pets and maintenance is low cost. The wide array of snake breeds ensures that pet owners may choose the most suitable snake for their individual situation. As with any pet, education is vital for choosing the best type for your individual or family needs. Snakes living in captivity need regular cleaning and pet owners must ensure their cages are well maintained. There are reptile-safe cleaning solutions that help ensure habitats are cleaned and sanitized.

Lizards

Chameleons, iguanas, geckos and bearded dragons are just a few lizards that are popular pet choices. While having a pet lizard is fun and exciting, certain health risks are associated with all reptiles. Lizards carry Salmonella, a disease that can have life-threatening consequences in some individuals. Most lizards become anxious with frequent handling and those who choose lizards for pets must educate themselves on safe handling methods, lizard care, and steps for maintaining a clean, safe and healthy habitat. When cared for properly, lizards can be a fine addition to any home.

Turtles

Aquatic turtles are popular exotic pets. Rules vary regarding keeping turtles in captivity, so make sure to check with applicable laws before selecting these water-loving reptiles. Unlike dogs and cats, reptiles don’t require physical human interaction to become happy, healthy pets. Turtles do not need to be picked up, handled or touched to receive affection. Wash your hands before and after handling turtles and never touch your face, eyes or mouth after touching a turtle. Use proper cleaning methods for turtle habitats to help prevent the growth and spread of Salmonella. Turtles make great pets for many owners. Use the best care and maintenance methods to ensure their well-being as well as yours.

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