Reptiles for Kids

Is your child currently obsessed with dinosaurs? This is a pretty common phase for many children. We can’t really blame kids for being so interested in these giant reptiles. After all, dinosaurs are completely fascinating. Your little one may also become interested in other reptiles, and may even ask for one as a pet. An Olympia, WA veterinarian offers some advice on this below.

 Pros

Reptiles do have some pretty unique advantages. First and foremost, they’re very beautiful, and can be fascinating to watch. A well-decorated tank also makes an eye-catching piece of décor. Reptiles are very quiet, so you won’t have to worry about them keeping your little one awake at night. They don’t need training, and require minimal daily care. And, while they aren’t the most charismatic pets, reptiles do have their own personalities. Some of them are really cute and lovable! As long as you keep their habitat clean, you also won’t have any foul smells to deal with. Another bonus? They won’t scratch your sofa or leave hairballs on your carpet. Finally, because they don’t have fur or dander, reptiles are also a great choice for anyone with allergies. 

Cons

A reptile may be sounding pretty good right now, after reading all of those perks. However, there are some downsides to consider. One of the big things here is diet. Many reptiles eat things like frozen mice, live bugs, and worms. That menu can be a dealbreaker to anyone with a weak stomach. Since you can’t exactly grab these things from the grocery store, you’ll need to visit the pet store frequently. That’s also something to keep in mind. Finally, most reptiles also have some very specific environmental needs. This requires special equipment and careful monitoring.

Tips

In addition to the pros and cons listed above, there are a few other things to consider. Reptiles vary widely in things like care needs, full size, longevity, and even temperament. Do plenty of research. Your best bet is to choose something that is gentle, easy to care for, and won’t eventually require a whole separate addition. Also, you should only buy reptiles from reputable breeders. Finally, you’ll need a good vet, one you can reach out to with questions about your pet’s health and care.

Do you have questions about reptile care? As your Olympia, WA veterinary clinic, we’re here to help. Contact us anytime!