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A
reptile can be a fascinating pet and a wonderful learning experience
for people of all ages. A terrarium environment with reptile inhabitants
is like a moving, living piece of nature right in one's own home. At
Petland Discounts you can find a large selection of reptiles to choose
from. Whether you prefer snakes, lizards or turtles, these long-lived
pets can provide years of fascination, exhibiting much of the same behavior
in your terrarium as they do in the wild.
Once you have
chosen you pet in order for them to thrive in captivity it is important
to reproduce the environmental conditions the reptile finds in nature.
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When
selecting a tank or a cage to house a reptile, it is very
important to consider the needs and general habit of the
animal. An enclosure destined to become a terrarium should
not only be large enough to accommodate rocks, branches,
water bowls and hiding caves, but should also provide
a safe retreat for your pet herp. A terrarium should be
well ventilated but securely closed with a metal screen
and safety clips. This will ensure the reptile will stay
inside and will be out of reach from other curious pets
and small children. |
When
deciding on the size of the tank or cage to use consider the
following:
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Very
active reptiles may require larger space enclosures
to roam around.
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Maximum
size and speed of growth of the reptile.
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General
disposition, as a rule aggressive and territorial reptiles
may need larger enclosures, or may not be housed together
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All
reptiles are cold-blooded animals, they require an external
heat source in order to performs most bodily functions.
Temperature requirements vary from species to species,
and must be closely matched to guarantee their well-being.
A
large selection of heaters, lamps and thermometers is
available at your local Petland Discounts to help you
meet the specific requirements of your pet. The most common
types of heaters are: |
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Combination
hoods. These are very effective in providing needed heat
and UV rays. They have independently controlled sockets
for day and night time heat bulbs, as well as a socket
for a fluorescent UV bulb. Their metal construction and
shape ensures maximum heat radiation.
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Incandescent
day and night lamps. An economical alternative to providing
heat. Should be used in conjunction with UV lamps with
any diurnal reptile.
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Ceramic
heat emitters. Very effective source of heat can be used
day or night. These heaters do not emit light. Must be
used in conjunction with UV lamps with any diurnal reptile.
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Heat
pads. Very effective for creating warm spot in the bottom
of a terrarium. Mostly recommended for burrowers or non-climbing
reptiles. These adhere to the underside of terrarium thus
avoiding electrical connections inside the enclosure.
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Heat
rocks. Very hot emitters shaped as rocks or caves. These
heaters are placed inside the terrarium. They are recommended
for use only with species with high temperature tolerance.
A
well-planned terrarium will have temperature variations
in the optimal range required by the reptile; this allows
the animal to find a comfortable zone on its own. Always
monitor temperature in at least two areas of the tank.
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Under
natural conditions, most reptiles are exposed to sunlight on
regular basis. An invisible portion of the sun’s spectrum
reaching the reptiles, Ultra Violet B (UVB) light, is required
by these animals to synthesize vitamin D3. In turn, this vitamin
is responsible for the metabolic conversion of dietary calcium
needed for growth and optimum health. Lack of exposure to beneficial
UVB illumination causes Metabolic Bone Disease, which can lead
to premature death. |
In
captivity, most reptiles require the exposure to the UVB light in
order to develop normally, and in some cases help reverse the onset
of Metabolic Bone Disease. Reptile specific fluorescent bulbs can
provide UVB light. These bulbs should be placed directly on top of
the reptile enclosure screen, as glass or plastic do not permit the
passage of the UVB rays
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Bedding
is an essential component of your terrarium as it helps to absorb
products of waste from your pet as well as providing a natural
walking and burrowing medium. There are many types of beddings
available each with different characteristics to match specific
environmental needs of the reptile. Final decision on the type
of substrate to use will depend on actual habit and humidity
requirements. Avoid the use of dirt and mulch that has not been
specifically formulated for use in terrariums as these may contain
parasites or pesticides that will harm your pet. |
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A
terrarium should always be eye pleasing and should simulate
the natural environment of your pet. There are climbing objects,
hollow logs, plants and many other decorations that will compliment
their new habitat. Reptiles will be more secure in their environment
if adequate hiding places and branches to climb on are provided.
A well-decorated terrarium can be a magnificent centerpiece
for any room. |
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Food
selection varies by species. Some reptiles are carnivorous feeding
mainly on insects, small rodents or fish, which are readily
available at your local Petland Discounts store. Some others
prefer fresh fruits and vegetables as part or the whole of their
diet. Whatever type of food your pet prefers, it is very important
to supplement their diet with calcium and vitamins available
specifically for reptiles. Some species will also accept prepared
foods available at all Petland Discounts stores. |
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Filtration:
(Click
HERE for Filtration) |
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Aquatic
animals such as turtles and amphibians require significant bodies
of water as part of their new habitat. This water must be maintained
clean at all times to promote healthy growth and development
of the animal. A filter is an important part of the aquatic
reptile’s vivarium. Petland Discounts carries a large
variety of filters and other accessories for your pet’s
well-being and maintenance. Our associates can help you select
a filter that will meet the needs of your pet. |
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Bowls
should be adequate for both drinking and soaking and heavy enough
so that it cannot be easily overturned. Some bowls for use with
reptile come in the shape of rocks or logs to match your set-up.
Some reptiles require the use of drip systems, which are also
available at Petland Discounts. Make sure your reptile has fresh
water on a daily basis. |
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A
very important tool for every pet owner. Consult books written
about your reptile pet to find out about its particular needs. |
Did
you know: Most snakes shed their outer
layer of skin between 4 to 6 times a year. During the shedding
process, which lasts 1-2 weeks, snakes will probably not eat,
be less active and their eyes will have a milky haze to them.
Did you know: If you keep more than one snake in a cage,
you should separate them for feedings to avoid having two animals
fighting over the same prey. Do not leave live food in the tank
unattended. The prey may turn on the snake and do great amount
of damage.
Did you know: One major difference in boas and pythons
is that boas are livebearers, while pythons lay eggs.
While
many green leafy vegetables are in fact a rich calcium
source, many of them are not suitable to feed reptiles
on prolonged basis. The main reason for this is that some
vegetables are also rich in oxalic acid, a naturally occurring
compound that prevents the absorption of dietary calcium
from foodstuffs. Following is a list detailing the vegetables
that should be used for feeding vegetarian and some of
those that are not recommended.
| Recommended: |
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Not
Recommended: |
| Dandelion
greens |
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Lettuce |
Mustard
Greens
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Spinach |
| Collard
Greens |
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Broccoli |
Escarole
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Cauliflower |
| Water
cress |
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Kale |
Peas
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Cabbage |
| Squash |
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Bok
choy |
| Pumpkin |
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Brussel
sprouts |
Fruit
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You
can print this page out, or download the entire
page on .pdf here.
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you do not have Adobe Acrobat get it here.
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