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The excitement of bringing home a new herp is a feeling that we are all familiar with. After thorough research and planning, your new companion is ready to be introduced to its new home. However, when purchasing a herp from a previous owner, there are even more considerations to take into account. Its diet, behavior, habitat, and temperament have been developed by someone else, and sometimes they may not have treated the animal properly.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know when buying or adopting a herp from a previous owner. Deciding to bring a pre-owned herp into your family is a big decision, one that will affect both you and the herp, so it is important to carefully consider whether adopting a herp with a previous owner is the right choice for you.
Things to Consider Beforehand
You come across a listing for a herp that you have been wanting on a website, such as your favorite breeder’s or even Craigslist. Before responding to the listing, do your research on how to care for the species, if you haven’t already. One of the best sources for accurate herp information is on REPTILES magazine’s website, but there are other places to look as well, such as breeder’s websites and species-specific forums. Some of the most important questions to answer are: What types of illnesses are they most susceptible to? How can you tell if they are healthy?
The author adopted Yoshi and had to experiment with different foods before finding what he liked. Photo by Gabby Bunko
Next, it is important to answer these questions honestly: Are you willing to care for an animal that may not be completely healthy? Do you have the time and resources to help the herp regain its health? What if an illness causes permanent damage, such as metabolic bone disease? This condition, caused by a lack of calcium and/or UVB, can lead to jaw and other bone problems that are often permanent. Are you prepared to provide the extra care needed for chronic issues?
If the answers to these health questions are yes, then you must also consider whether you have enough space to house the herp. If you are like me, you probably already have multiple herps, so it is important to know what the housing requirements are and if you have room for them, especially if they come with their own housing. The same goes for food. I usually already have the food a new herp would need, but I always double check to see if pre-owned herps have dietary requirements that I do not already have or buy. Sometimes previous owners have raised picky eaters. Make sure to see if the extra food will fit into your budget, especially if the herp is on the larger side or has a very specific diet. When I adopted Yoshi, my blue-tongued skink, I had to buy different food because of his preferences compared to my other lizards, including Odie, my bearded dragon. I adopted both of them from previous owners, so these questions were at the forefront of my mind when I decided to bring them home.
If you have the space and food, great! Then you can think about how you will transport the herp from their previous owner’s place to yours. If you already have herps, you are probably familiar with transporting them to and from the vet. If not, most pet stores have pet carriers in the reptile section that are suitable for most herp transport. Be sure to place something on the bottom of the carrier, like a towel, so the herp can feel comfortable and get a good grip. If the herp requires a high level of moisture, you can use a mister or spray bottle to make the towel damp, but not wet. If the journey back to your home is longer than an hour or two, be sure to stop regularly and provide water and food. Have all of this prepared before you go to look at the herp, so you can make the transition as comfortable as possible if you decide to bring the animal home.
Ask Questions
However, before you decide whether to bring the herp home, there are questions you must ask the current owner. Some of these answers may be found in the listing or ad, but the rest should be in your response to the listing, such as: How old is the animal? Where did they get him? What do they feed him? How much? How often? Does she have a good appetite? Is housing included and, if so, is it appropriate housing with suitable decor? Would you have to provide the housing yourself, and is that a dealbreaker for you?
Adopting a Herp: What You Need to Know
Adopting a herp can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research and take necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of the animal. Here are some key things to keep in mind when considering adopting a herp.
Research the Species
Before adopting a herp, it’s crucial to research the specific species you are interested in. Each species has unique care requirements, and it’s important to make sure you can provide the proper environment and diet for the animal. Look for reputable sources such as books, online forums, and experienced herp owners to gather information about the species.
Consider Adoption from a Rescue or Rehoming
Instead of buying a herp from a pet store, consider adopting from a rescue or rehoming organization. These organizations often have herps that need a new home due to various reasons, such as the owner’s inability to care for them or the animal being surrendered. By adopting from a rescue or rehoming, you are giving a herp a second chance at a happy life.
Be Wary of Scams
When searching for a herp to adopt, be cautious of potential scams. If the listing does not have any pictures, ask for them before agreeing to see the animal in person. If the seller refuses to send pictures or the price seems too good to be true, it’s likely a scam. Never send money or pay before seeing the animal in person.
Ask Questions
Before agreeing to adopt a herp, ask the current owner questions about the animal’s temperament, handling frequency, and any potential hazards in the current environment. It’s also important to ask about the herp’s health history and when it last shed or went through brumation.
See the Animal in Person
When going to see the herp in person, make sure to have transportation arrangements and payment ready. It’s also a good idea to bring someone with you for safety and a second opinion. When viewing the animal, check for signs of proper care and any potential pests.
Adjust to the New Environment
Once you bring the herp home, it’s important to give them time to adjust to their new environment. This can be a stressful time for the animal, so make sure to provide a quiet and comfortable space for them to settle in. Monitor their behavior and make any necessary adjustments to their care.
Continue Proper Care
Adopting a herp means taking on the responsibility of providing proper care for the animal. Make sure to continue researching and learning about the species to ensure their well-being. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced herp owners or a veterinarian.
Conclusion
Adopting a herp can be a fulfilling experience, but it’s important to do your due diligence and take necessary precautions. Research the species, consider adoption from a rescue or rehoming, be cautious of scams, ask questions, and see the animal in person before making a decision. Once you bring the herp home, continue providing proper care and seek help if needed. With the right preparation and care, you can give a herp a happy and healthy life in their new home.
I’ve always been fascinated by reptiles, and this post will definitely help me make informed choices when considering adopting one. Thanks for the helpful insights! 🦎
I’ve been thinking about adopting a reptile, and this post is exactly what I needed! Thank you for covering all the essential factors to consider. Can’t wait to provide a loving home for a scaly friend! 🐍🏠💚