RESCUE TAILS / The Overlooked Ones

-Contributed by FKSPCA Staff

When people think about types of animals available for adoption at animal shelters, typically dogs and cats come to mind. Of course, some shelters also have adoptable rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals like hamsters and rats. The FKSPCA has all of the aforementioned animals looking for new homes, and we also sometimes have parrots and smaller birds. Still, another group of animals that may not come to mind for adoption are reptiles. FKSPCA often has these creatures too!

Since the beginning of 2023, the FKSPCA has taken in 21 reptiles, including lizards, snakes, tortoises, and turtles. Some of these animals are found as strays. Others are given up when no longer wanted, either their care became too expensive,  a life change for the family occurred, or there’s another reason why the animal can no longer remain in the home. Each group of reptiles comes with its own needs and challenges and caring for them requires extensive knowledge about appropriate care and housing. All reptiles are considered “exotic” pets, and we often work with veterinarians who specialize in exotic animal medicine to ensure the reptiles get the appropriate diets and any medical attention needed before adoption.

Reptiles that come to us most frequently as strays are tortoises and turtles. Although these animals may look similar, they are VERY different. Tortoises are primarily land dwellers. Turtles are primarily aquatic and spend most of their lives in water. This is why it’s critical to know the difference if you find one. Putting a tortoise in a pond could be a death sentence! Both turtles and tortoises have long lifespans. Some turtles can live up to 40 years and tortoises 80-100 years!

The most common species of tortoise found as a stray is the African Spurred or Sulcata tortoise. Imagine a 100 lb. tortoise “wandering” into your yard! Believe it or not, this is not uncommon as these hefty animals can be determined Houdini’s and seem to love to go exploring. Fortunately, most tortoises are reclaimed by their families who must then fortify enclosures to prevent another escape. Both tortoises and turtles are typically purchased as babies from animal-sellers and are easier to keep when young. As they mature and grow, their housing and care requirements become more demanding, which often is why they are surrendered. Tortoises require larger enclosures; turtles require bigger ponds.

Snakes are another common reptile we see, typically Boa Constrictors. These snakes are often sold as pets and are fairly easy to keep. But again, as they mature, they may require more in terms of food (some will only eat live prey such as mice and rats) and larger secure enclosures to provide appropriate humane housing. As with all animals, keepers of these animals need to be well-informed and have access to an exotic vet for healthcare.

The last group of reptiles we get are the lizards, which includes Geckos and Bearded Dragons  Geckos are different from other lizards. They have suction feet, are typically small, and are more brightly colored in patterns. We have had 12 lizards available for adoption since the beginning of the year. Again, these are animals purchased from animal-sellers, often when young. Because of their unique needs, they require a species-specific habitat and diet that meets their daily nutritional requirements. Unfortunately, many of these exotic animals do not survive as pets because these needs are not adequately met.

Recently, snakes and lizards have been left in our overnight pen. While we are grateful these animals were brought to us rather than abandoned, it is always more beneficial to the animals when we receive information about them, such as age, history, health issues, etc. This helps us provide better care and find an appropriate new home.

If you are a lover of reptiles, are interested in learning more about them, or are considering adding one to your family, we hope you will stop by the FKSPCA or check out your local shelter or rescue. We might have just what you are looking for! To see our current list of adoptable animals, including any reptiles we might have, go to www.fkspca.org

Thanks!

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