In accordance with NC State Mandates, we have instated the following COVID-19 related protocols: In order to protect our clients and staff we will be practicing curbside only services. We ask that all clients call upon arrival and remain in their car until a trained veterinary assistant is able to help you. All clients will be asked to remain in their cars while their pet's medical needs are being taken care of by a veterinarian inside the building. Clients will then get a phone call from the veterinarian regarding their pet's health. We ask for patience during this difficult time as we work diligently to continue to provide you with all of your veterinary needs. Please call our office with any questions. Thank You.
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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, particularly 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.
While there are many types of reptiles that could be good pets, here we cover a few you could consider.
Morehead City Office
Monday:
7:30 am-6:00 pm
Tuesday:
7:30 am-6:00 pm
Wednesday:
7:30 am-6:00 pm
Thursday:
7:30 am-6:00 pm
Friday:
7:30 am-6:00 pm
Saturday:
8:00 am-1:00 pm
Sunday:
Closed