Reptiles and Amphibians for Kids: What You Need to Know Ahead of Time
Many reptiles and amphibians can make for great pets for the kids or family, and can be great ways of instilling greater levels of responsibility and awareness, as well as involvement in conservation, education, and connection to our natural world, but there are also many important considerations that should be made before you make that decision to do so. Have you thoroughly researched this animal or species? What sort of enclosure or space requirements does it need? How long can they potentially live? Do you know what to expect with this animal and is the right pet? These, among other considerations, are all important factors to consider BEFORE getting that new pet. It is important to consider that any pet purchased for your child will ultimately be the responsibility of you as the parent, or other legal guardian.
Care Requirements
Most species of amphibians and reptiles require more specific environmental conditions in which to thrive. For this reason, temperature and humidity levels must be checked routinely and adjusted as necessary, enclosures must be spot cleaned when soiled and deep cleaned/sanitized on a regular basis, and appropriate furnishings and decor (such as climbing branches, water-bowls, and hides) must be provided and maintained. Children, especially younger members of the family, need to be closely monitored to assure that they are keeping and handling the reptile in a suitable environment and appropriate manner. Some animals which may otherwise make great pets, can still be more active or faster moving, and therefore may require close and careful supervision for younger or littler children to handle. Additionally, reptiles must be fed a proper diet and given supplements such as calcium and multivitamins when necessary. Also be aware that this proper diet may include even live insects or live feeder rodents!
Lifespan
Most species of reptiles and amphibians can be relatively long lived, and many can live for anywhere from 10 to 50 years, or more, depending on the animal. Choosing a long-lived animal as a pet for a child commits you as the parent to the care of that animal for its lifetime should your child fail to care for it properly, or should your child go away to college, move in with a parent or guardian who will not allow the reptile in their residence, etc. Always be sure you know the life expectancy of the reptile you intend to purchase for your child, and consider if you are willing to take on that commitment.
Loss of Interest and Moving On
Contrary to popular belief of widespread animal abuse or neglect, loss of interest, or children moving on in their lives are actually some of the most common reasons organizations see for rehoming or relinquishment of animals. As they get older, even the most responsible of children can lose interest in pets, hobbies, and activities they once enjoyed. Rehoming a child's unwanted dog or cat can be difficult or stressful, rehoming a child's unwanted reptile can sometimes be much more difficult. If you are unwilling or unable to care for your child's pet reptile should they lose interest, then a reptile or amphibian is not the right pet for your household. However, if you find yourself in a situation where rehoming your reptile is unavoidable, please contact us for assistance. Never release a pet reptile into the wild!
If you have considered all of the above and still wish to bring home a scaly, or sometimes slimy or “creepy crawly” pet into your home for your child, we welcome you and your child to do so and to become members of MAHS and our Young Explorer’s program! We recommend purchasing a pet from a reputable source, such as a reputable pet store or reptile specialty store, or a reputable breeder, reptile rescue, or other organization providing available animals.