Not everyone is cut out to have a reptile as a pet. The first thing to consider is - can you feed your potential pet? Meaning two things - first, is the specific food for your specific pet available locally or within reason. And second, if your reptile pet requires live or once-living food, is that something you can deal with?

Yes? Ok, here are the best pets for a first-time reptile owner.

#1) The Ball Python. These beautiful snakes grow to about 5 feet, which is small for snakes. Their care is simple. Fresh water should be in the enclosure at all times. The correct temperature (80-82 degrees F.) must be maintained. He should have two or more hiding places, and should be fed on a regular schedule. This goes for all reptiles. A note on Ball Pythons - When you are shopping for one, get one that is captive-bred rather than wild caught. Wild ones can be extremely difficult to feed, as their native food is gerbils rather than mice.

#2.) Leopard Geckos. Excellent pets, very colorful and fun to watch. Again, proper food and water. Clean the substrate in the cage weekly and watch them grow. Seldom larger than 8 inches, these are fascinating creatures.

#3.) Bearded Dragons. Another lizard species that is fairly common and easy to care for. Don't let the name fool you, these are generally docile creatures. A bit larger than Leopard Geckos, the can reach about 18 inches. They also require special lighting. Do your research first on UVA and UBV lighting!

#4.) Kingsnakes. There is a huge variety of Kingsnakes available. One cautionary note, kingsnakes must be housed alone. One item of prey for Kingsnakes is other snakes.

A few things I have to add. Never, never use Hot Rocks or heat lamps inside a reptiles cage. They can kill your pet. When choosing an enclosure, aquariums with locking lids are recommended for any reptile. If you get a snake, it is a wise thing to have a separate 'feeding box'. Remove the snake from his regular cage and place him in a plastic shoebox where his dinner is waiting. Let him eat and set for a few minutes before you return him home. Never leave a snake unattended in a shoebox, they are escape artists. And never leave a snake alone with live food (i.e. a mouse).

Children under ten should never be allowed to handle their pet reptile while alone, and older children should have rules about how and when. I have never know anyone to get Salmonella from a reptile, but it can happen. Use common sense. Don't eat while handling your pet, and wash your hands when you are done.

Good luck! Reptiles are wonderful pets!

Learn more about this author, Sheila H..
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Reptiles that make the best pets?
We want to hear your view. Write now!