EXOTIC PET INFORMATION
Our pets need care, whether they be our small fish or our large Great Dane. More importantly it is those members of the Animal Kingdom that have traveled from different states, countries, or continents to our home that need the most specialized care. These are the "exotic pets".
Care begins with what they need to live in and eat - their husbandry. Since all species are different in regards to requirements they need, generalizations cannot be made.
As you will find, each individual has its own list of specific needs. Before you consider adopting such a pet, or if you already have one, make sure you have read about the proper way to care for one of them. Below are two examples of lists for the care of two of the more common species we have seen. Husbandry is only one aspect of care; regular yearly checks at the veterinarian are also important.
Our July offer is $10 off your first visit with an exotic pet. The link to the special coupon will be at the bottom of this page.
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| Aquatic Turtles | Ball Python |
20, 30, or 50 gallon aquarium, depending on the size and # of turtles No more than 2 recommended to be housed together A mesh lid is best to allow direct rays of light to reach the turtle Undergravel filter is preferred. However, even with a filter, the water will need to be cleaned daily or sometimes several times daily (ie dumped, scrubbed, and fresh water added) Use aquarium stones packed loosely A full spectrum reptile bulb must be used and placed no more than 24 inches above the turtles: Spring:12-14 hours of light & 10-12 hours of dark Fall/Winter: 8 hours of light & 16 hours of dark Temperature should be maintained at an average of 75 degrees for both water and air Basking: provide a branch or rock placed a few inches above the water and under both the full spectrum reptile bulb as well as an incandescent bulb in a conical reflector (using a 50W bulb about 12 inches above the branch or rock) Cleaning: use a mild dish soap after first removing the turtle! |
1:1 enclosure--that is if the snake is 4 feet long, then a 4 foot enclosure is suitable Plastic enclosure preferred Ambient Temp=80-85 Deg. F Night Temp=78-82 Deg. F Hot Spot=88-95 Deg. F Humidity: 80% in Summer & 50-60% in Winter Substrate: Shredded Aspen or Cypress mulch or newspaper (the snake should be removed from this for feeding) Water should be available at all times and should be changed for fresh daily A hidebox should be available, preferrably two--one for cool side and one for hot side Light: 12 hours on, 12 hours off, except in Winter--10 on, 14 off using a full spectrum reptile bulb Spot cleaning should be done daily, with a full cleaning done weekly (wear rubber gloves) |
July Coupon Offer
