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So You Want To Adopt?

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Please Think Before You Leap

Adopting a pet is a big decision. Those baby turtles and geckos you see in a pet store are cute.  If you're like most of us, falling in love with a pet is easy.  Many reptiles, though, require lots of time, money, and commitment- 12-80 years worth in many cases. Pet ownership can be rewarding, but only if you think through your decision before you adopt a companion.

Things To Know

The fact that you're thinking about adopting from an animal shelter means you're a responsible and caring person. But before you make that decision to bring a scaly friend into your life, take a moment to think over these questions:
    • Why do you want a pet? It's amazing how many people fail to ask themselves this simple question before they get a pet. Adopting a pet just because it's "the thing to do" or because the kids have been pining for a baby turtle usually ends up being a big mistake. Don't forget that pets may be with you 10, 20 even 50 years.
    • Do you have time for a pet? Animal companions cannot be ignored just because you're tired or busy. They require food, water, care, and companionship every day of every year. Many animals in the shelter are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.
    • Can you afford a pet? The costs of pet ownership can be quite high. Enclosures and appropriate equipment, veterinary care, food, and other expenses add up quickly.
    • Can you have a pet where you live? Many rental communities don't allow pets, and most of the rest have restrictions. Make sure you know what they are before you bring a companion animal home.
    • Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet? If you have kids under six years old you might consider waiting a few years before you adopt a companion. Pet ownership requires children who are mature enough to be responsible. If you're a student, in the military, or travel frequently as part of your work, waiting until you settle down is wise.
    • Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind? Animal size is not the only variable to think about here. Before adopting a pet, do some research! That way, you'll ensure you choose an animal that will fit into your lifestyle and your living arrangements.
    • Do you know who will care for your pet while you're away on vacation? You'll need either reliable friends and neighbors or money to pay for boarding or pet-sitting service.
    • Finally, are you prepared to keep and care for the pet for his or her entire lifetime? When you adopt a pet, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime.

Get AReptile For Life

Sure, it's a long list of questions. But a quick stroll through any animal shelter will help you understand why answering them before you adopt is so important.

Many of the shelter's homeless reptiles, especially turtles, were obtained by people who didn't think through the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got them.

Please, don't make the same mistake. Think before you adopt. Sharing your life with a companion pet can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love-for the life of the pet.

If you're ready to adopt a companion for life, please click the links above at the top of the page to see our many wonderful reptiles available for adoption at the Little RES Q.

If someone tugs at your heart and you would like to meet him or her, please fill out an Adoption Application.

Ready to Adopt?

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Apply to adopt a Reptile

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