What to Look For When Rehoming Your Pet Reptile or Amphibian!

Oftentimes, one of the hardest, or most difficult aspects of owning pets are the occasional decisions which must be made as to whether or not to rehome, or part ways with your pet reptile, amphibian, or even other pet. Whether this is due to moving and not having the ability to take them with you to the new area in which one would be living, becoming gravely ill or injured in the long-term, or even if it just does not seem to be working out, not what one expected, or for other reasons. Unfortunately, life events and changes in its direction can happen to nearly anyone, and sometimes we ultimately need to choose to decide what may be best for ourselves and our pets.

Fortunately, there are usually one or several options available in most areas for being able to rehome your beloved pets, even when it comes to reptiles, amphibians, and many other exotic pets. Local animal shelters or humane societies, particularly ones which may be located in larger, or more metropolitan areas with greater resources and knowledge in a wider array of species than dogs and cats may sometimes be able to accept at least most, commonly kept smaller species of reptiles and amphibians. Local herpetological societies and/or any number of the great, reputable reptile rescue organizations, if there are any in your state or area, will also oftentimes either be able to accept surrender pets or otherwise be able to assist you in being able to rehome your pet. Local boards and classifieds, both online and in-person at local stores, community centers, or other locations can be another avenue one might seek in rehoming their pet.

There is also always the option of finding a home for your pet individually, or on one’s own as well. Here are some tips for rehoming your pet!

-Create Your Own Adoption Form or Questionnaire!
-Create Your Own Change of Ownership Form. Home-to-Home and the Dane County Humane Society (or your other local humane society) may be able to provide additional resources for rehoming your pet on your own.
Dane County Humane Society | Rehome A Pet (giveshelter.org)
-What sort of background or experience does the person have with reptiles or amphibians, how long have they been keeping them, and which species do they currently keep, or have had in the past?
-Do they have a good veterinarian they can take the animal to if or when needed?
-Do they have the right enclosure and setup for this animal?
-Give yourself time to find a home for your pet. Some species will be easier to find homes for than others. It may take days, weeks, or even months.
-Include photos and as much information as known, or possible about your pet. Include their age, sex, temperament and disposition, preferred feeding and diet, medical and veterinary history, and anything else.
-Consider what to charge for a rehoming fee. Ultimately, this is up to you, although charging too low a fee may attract unscrupulous people, while charging too high of a fee could be a turn-off. Some may choose to not have a fee, and instead interview and ask questions of any prospective adopter in order to find the animal a good home.
-Rehoming-Packet-2023.pdf (giveshelter.org) contains even more information which may apply to reptiles and other exotic pets, not just dogs and cats.