If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right. Switch to Accessible Site

WARNING

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Close [x]

People with limited living quarters may find that reptiles such as lizards or turtles fit perfectly into their lifestyles. Before deciding on a reptile, learn as much as possible about them and their needs. Poisonous snakes and certain reptiles should never be kept as pets. Ask your veterinarian about the suitability of a particular animal before you make your decision. There are many things to consider before committing to a reptile as a pet. 

Finding out if a Pet is Legal Where You Live
Many areas have enacted laws pertaining to keeping reptiles. Some are general and some are quite specific; in many places any reptiles that are considered dangerous (venomous snakes, alligators, etc.) are illegal but some places are even more restrictive (for example, in some states all consticting snakes including ball pythons are illegal).

Salmonella Risks and Prevention
All reptile owners need to be informed about Salmonella infections. While the risks shouldn't keep most people from keeping reptiles since with the proper management the risks are minimal. Still, owners should be aware of the risks, and the US Centers for Disease Control recommends that certain risk groups should be careful about contact with reptiles and amphibians.

The Importance of Light and Heat
Many problems with keeping reptiles can be traced back to not providing the proper environmental conditions, particuarly heat. Proper lighting is also important for many reptiles. The equipment to provide the proper heat and light to captive reptiles is often quite expensive, but is absolutely essential to keeping pet reptiles healthy. It is important to find out exactly what conditions your reptile needs and never cut corners when it comes to meeting those conditions!

Why Choose Captive Bred Reptiles
There are numerous reasons why you should pick a captive bred reptile if at all possible, as explained here.

How to Pick a Healthy Reptile
It is important to keep in mind that depending on where you get a reptile, it may be very stressed, dehydrated, and prone to illness. Here are some items to look for when buying your reptile to increase the chances of picking out a healthy pet reptile.

Exclusive Offer

FREE Nail Trim! An $11 value - just mention the webpage!

Sign-up using the form or call us at 406-522-9491 to take advantage of this exclusive offer.

THIS ---->https://ddvetcom.vetmatrixbase.com/veterinary_topics/c_346_reptiles.html

Office Hours

DayOpenClose
Monday8:30am5:30pm
Tuesday8:30am5:30pm
Wednesday8:30am5:30pm
Thursday8:30am5:30pm
Friday8:30am5:30pm
SaturdayClosedClosed
SundayClosedClosed
Day Open Close
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8:30am 8:30am 8:30am 8:30am 8:30am Closed Closed
5:30pm 5:30pm 5:30pm 5:30pm 5:30pm Closed Closed

Testimonial

So impressed with how Sue and Cara cared for our dog Fritz for many years until he passed away at age 15 in February. The two dogs we currently have are also so lucky to see Sue and Cara.

Melissa K.
Bozeman, MT

Newsletter Sign Up