Exotic Pet Mammals
The Most Important Thing to Know About Reptiles by Gary Kurz
The sudden popularity of reptiles and amphibians as pets, in particular exotics, has created a host of problems for those who want to keep them. Legislation regarding type, size, breeding restrictions and cage requirements have been swiftly passed at many levels of government to ensure that the general public and local fauna are not put at risk by the accidental introduction of non-indigenous species. Meeting these requirements can mean unexpected expense and frustration.
Husbandry can be problematic for potential owners as well. When one keeps a dog or cat, a general understanding of their needs exists and people are usually prepared to meet those needs. Reptiles and amphibians are not as easily cared for as conventional pets. For one thing they have a wide spectrum of environmental needs. One may require a constant supply of vitamin D via exposure to sunlight, while another is completely nocturnal and sun-reclusive. Not meeting these needs can result in needless suffering, big veterinarian expenses or loss of the animal.
Sustenance can pose even more of a challenge. One must be able to meet the dietary needs of the animal they plan to keep. For instance, most people are not aware that snakes are carnivorous without exception. The cute, colorful animal at the pet store will not eat fruit or vegetables. Depending on the species, you will have to provide mammals, fish, other reptiles and amphibians or insects. Even if you opt for pre-killed frozen food, many find this a repulsive task.
Then there are the vermin that may come with the animal. Snakes are prone to mites, lizards and turtles to burrowing parasites, amphibians to fungus. Then there is mouth rot, rickets and eye caps, just to name a few of the scores of ailments that can occur.
There is much to consider before choosing a reptile or amphibian as a pet. Responsible husbandry should start with knowing the facts before you acquire an animal. If you want to be happy with the creature you choose and provide quality care, impulse should yield to knowledge. Don’t just jump at the first animal that catches your eye; research their needs and peculiarities to ensure it is a good fit.
Libraries and the internet are excellent resources for arming yourself with necessary knowledge, but joining a local herpetological group or society will pay even bigger dividends. Even if the nearest herpetological society is a two-hour drive from where you live, it is worth the once a month trip to attend meetings. There you will meet others who already have the knowledge and experience you are trying to acquire. Most, if not all, will be willing to spend time with you before or after the meeting to answer your questions and give you pointers.
You will benefit from the different speakers who will be headlined at the meetings and be added to the mailing list for the society to receive relevant herpetological news. Through your networking you will develop friendships and associations with other members that can benefit you in many ways.
Finally, for very meager annual dues, you will be a member of a group of people who come from all walks of life, who all work together for the society’s common cause, which is educating the public on herpetological interests. As a co-founder of the Everglades Herpetological Society, I made friends with many well-known zoologists and other scientists, policemen, college professors, authors, professional football players and a host of others. Our common interest in herpetology bridged all cultural and societal gaps and great friendship developed.
Best of all, my attendance at meetings and associations with other members gave me a free education in the care and breeding of reptiles. As a result of my membership, in less than a decade I went from being a complete novice to someone others sought out for expert advice on Florida reptiles and amphibians.
The bottom line is this; if you want to have a pleasant, successful experience with keeping reptiles and amphibians, know first what you are doing. To “know”, you need to be around those who have already been where you want to be. You will find them at your local herpetological society. Find it. Join it.
About the Author
The author is a retired Coast Guard Officer with over 32 years of service. He is a co-founder of the Everglades Herpetological Society of Miami and a field expert on Florida herpes. His most popular book, “Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates” delivers hope and comfort to those who have lost a precious pet in a very gentle, yet convincing way. Visit at http://www.coldnosesbook.com for more information and tips
The Pet Trade: Exotic Mammals
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Veterinary Nursing of Exotic Pets $89.99 From budgies and cockatiels to chipmunks and chinchillas, our interest in exotic pets has rocketed in recent years. With the house rabbit being the UK’s third most commonly kept pet after the cat and dog, and sales in small mammals, reptiles and birds continuing to grow, exotic pets have now become a specialist area of veterinary practice in their own right. Veterinary Nursing of Exotic Pets is the first book to address the need for a definitive reference book devoted entirely to the principles and applications of nursing exotic species. Developed from a City and Guild’s course, it not only covers husbandry, nutrition and handling, but also explores anatomy and chemical restraint, and provides an overview of diseases and treatments. |
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Mammals $5.96 Mammals |
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MAMMALS $18.29 MAMMALS |
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Clinical Radiology of Exotic Companion Mammals $160.04 Radiology is a routine diagnostic procedure in all fields of clinical veterinary practice, and exotic medicine is no exception. Besides an increasing interest and concurrent demand for a higher level of care of these species, very little is reported in th |
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Diagnostic Imaging of Exotic Pets $249.95 This comprehensive atlas covers birds, small mammals and reptiles. All imaging techniques have been included: radiography, sonography, CT and MRI. It is an ideal supplement to literature presently available on imaging diagnostics for small animals. The book is divided into sections for each type of pet so that relevant information and visual references can be rapidly consulted. Every section begins with the anatomical illustration of the relevant part of the body with respect to each of the individual diagnostic procedures. In the second part of the book, the most common pathological conditions are depicted according to organ system and discussed comparatively. This comparative presentation enables a quick and correct diagnosis in conjunction with using the most suitable diagnostic techniques. All radiographic, sonographic, CT and MRI images are clearly labelled. Containing over 1,400illustrations, this atlas is an unrivalled diagnostic aid for veterinarians in practice and training. |
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Skinneeez Exotic Series – Pink Flamingo – 13 in. $5.99 Exotic creatures bring out the best in Skinneeez stuffing-free dog toys. No stuffing, no mess design feels like dead prey in your dog’s mouth: just the way they love it! Dual squeaker design keeps your pet interested even more. Realistic animal shapes appeal to your dog’s natural instincts. |
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Manual of Exotic Pet Practice $89 This book is in New – Excellent condition |
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Exotic Pet Behaviour $127.94 This book is in Used condition |
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Tropic Fruit Pudding Blend – 25 oz. $15.99 All medium to large exotic birds will relish this sumptious human grade fruit blend It’s all in the mix: papaya, mango, banana, apple, cherry, coconut, apricot, plum, dates, grapes, figs, and more Give your bird a real treat, and a nutritional boost, too Great for small mammals, as well. eat your fine feathered friend to a dinner they will truly enjoy- Goldenfeast. |
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Exotic $6 Exotic |
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Akitas $8.99 The sturdy Akita, a much favored breed in his native Japan, is a loyal and affectionate family dog that thrives on companionship with humans. This book is a brand-new title in Barron”s extensive line of Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals. They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the language is non-technical and easy for every pet owner to understand. Every title in this series is individually written from first page to last by a breeder, trainer, veterinarian, or other animal specialist. All Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals are filled with high-quality color photos and instructive line art. |
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Bernese Mountain Dogs $2.14 Used – This sturdy, silky-coated canine originated as a farm dog in Switzerland, where it remains very common. This book is a brand-new title in Barron’s extensive line of “Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals.” They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the langua |
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Bernese Mountain Dogs $3.3 New – This sturdy, silky-coated canine originated as a farm dog in Switzerland, where it remains very common. This book is a brand-new title in Barron’s extensive line of “Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals.” They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the languag |
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Bernese Mountain Dogs $2.05 Used – This sturdy, silky-coated canine originated as a farm dog in Switzerland, where it remains very common. This book is a brand-new title in Barron’s extensive line of “Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals.” They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the langua |
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Bernese Mountain Dogs $5.24 New – This sturdy, silky-coated canine originated as a farm dog in Switzerland, where it remains very common. This book is a brand-new title in Barron’s extensive line of “Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals.” They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the languag |
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Brussels Griffons $5.26 New – The tiny Brussels Griffon compensates for his diminutive size with a large amount of personality and friendliness. This book is a brand-new title in Barrons extensive line of “Complete Pet Owners Manuals.” They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but th |
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Brussels Griffons $4.19 New – The tiny Brussels Griffon compensates for his diminutive size with a large amount of personality and friendliness. This book is a brand-new title in Barrons extensive line of “Complete Pet Owners Manuals.” They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but th |
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Brussels Griffons: Everything about Purchase, Care, Nutrition, Behavior, and Training $8.99 The tiny Brussels Griffon compensates for his diminutive size with a large amount of personality and friendliness. This book is a brand-new title in Barron”s extensive line of Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals. They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the language is non-technical and easy for every pet owner to understand. Every title in this series is individually written from first page to last by a breeder, trainer, veterinarian, or other animal specialist. All Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals are filled with high-quality color photos and instructive line art. |
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Bulldogs $8.99 Although originally bred for the now-outlawed sport of bull baiting, today”s bulldog is typically mild tempered and a loyal household companion. This book is a brand-new title in Barron”s extensive line of Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals. They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the language is non-technical and easy for every pet owner to understand. Every title in this series is individually written from first page to last by a breeder, trainer, veterinarian, or other animal specialist. All Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals are filled with high-quality color photos and instructive line art. |
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Cardiology $54.39 Used – This issue will explore the latest research and clinical information concerning cardiology of exotic pet species. The majority of the issue will cover the cardiovascular physiology and disease of pet birds, reptiles, rabbits, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and invertebrates. Another article will cover the cardiology of ferrets. |
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Cardiology $95.91 Used – This issue will explore the latest research and clinical information concerning cardiology of exotic pet species. The majority of the issue will cover the cardiovascular physiology and disease of pet birds, reptiles, rabbits, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and invertebrates. Another article will cover the cardiology of ferrets. |
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Cardiology, an Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Animal Practice $54.39 New – This issue will explore the latest research and clinical information concerning cardiology of exotic pet species. The majority of the issue will cover the cardiovascular physiology and disease of pet birds, reptiles, rabbits, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and invertebrates. Another article will cover the cardiology of ferrets. |
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Cardiology, an Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Animal Practice $95.91 New – This issue will explore the latest research and clinical information concerning cardiology of exotic pet species. The majority of the issue will cover the cardiovascular physiology and disease of pet birds, reptiles, rabbits, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and invertebrates. Another article will cover the cardiology of ferrets. |
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Chinese Cresteds $8.99 This manual describes both varieties of the Chinese Crested dog. One, called the Hairless, has fur only on his head, feet, and tail. The other, known as the Powder Puff, has a long, soft coat. Both varieties share the same playful temperament. This book is a brand-new title in Barron”s extensive line of Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals. They advise current and soon-to-be pet owners on the care of dogs and cats of virtually all recognized breeds, as well as on birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals, and even exotic creatures like tarantulas and sugar gliders. The information in each book is authoritative but the language is non-technical and easy for every pet owner to understand. Every title in this series is individually written from first page to last by a breeder, trainer, veterinarian, or other animal specialist. All Complete Pet Owner”s Manuals are filled with high-quality color photos and instructive line art. |
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Cytology, an Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Pet $39.3 Used – Guest Editor Michael Garner is board certified in pathology and has recruited pathologists from around the country to cover cytologic diagnosis in each major exotic pet species. This issue will include color photographs to show the proper cytological information. Species include avians, ferrets, rabbits, hedgehogs, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals and invertebrates. |
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Cytology, an Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Pet $170.95 New – Guest Editor Michael Garner is board certified in pathology and has recruited pathologists from around the country to cover cytologic diagnosis in each major exotic pet species. This issue will include color photographs to show the proper cytological information. Species include avians, ferrets, rabbits, hedgehogs, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals and invertebrates. |
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Cytology, an Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Pet $30.24 Used – Guest Editor Michael Garner is board certified in pathology and has recruited pathologists from around the country to cover cytologic diagnosis in each major exotic pet species. This issue will include color photographs to show the proper cytological information. Species include avians, ferrets, rabbits, hedgehogs, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals and invertebrates. |
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Cytology, an Issue of Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Pet $112.21 New – Guest Editor Michael Garner is board certified in pathology and has recruited pathologists from around the country to cover cytologic diagnosis in each major exotic pet species. This issue will include color photographs to show the proper cytological information. Species include avians, ferrets, rabbits, hedgehogs, reptiles, amphibians, fish, small mammals and invertebrates. |
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Diagnostic Imaging of Exotic Pets: Birds, Small Mammals, Reptiles $169.58 Used – This comprehensive atlas covers birds, small mammals and reptiles. All imaging techniques have been included: radiography, sonography, CT and MRI. It is an ideal supplement to literature presently available on imaging diagnostics for small animals. The book is divided into sections for each type of pet so that relevant information and visual references can be rapidly consulted. Every section begins with the anatomical illustration of the relevant part of the body with respect to each of t |
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Diagnostic Imaging of Exotic Pets: Birds, Small Mammals, Reptiles $113.21 Used – This comprehensive atlas covers birds, small mammals and reptiles. All imaging techniques have been included: radiography, sonography, CT and MRI. It is an ideal supplement to literature presently available on imaging diagnostics for small animals. The book is divided into sections for each type of pet so that relevant information and visual references can be rapidly consulted. Every section begins with the anatomical illustration of the relevant part of the body with respect to each of t |
