There’s a debate slithering around having reptiles as pets as an exotic-reptile show returns to the Richmond Nature Park this weekend.
Although stressing that a cold-blooded pet needs a diligent owner, the show’s operator doesn’t see a problem with people owning lizards and snakes.
“Reptiles can make great pets as long as you’re responsible.… If they want one, we let them know it’s a 20-year commitment and a major responsibility,” said Gail Watson, snake owner and founder of the West Coast Society for the Protection and Conservation of Reptiles.
“If you’re intent on owning a reptile, get a snake. Snakes are mild-tempered from the day they’re born till the day they die.”
But Peter Fricker of the Vancouver Humane Society is campaigning against reptile ownership because the “animals retain their natural instincts and don’t make good pets.”
“Reptiles are complex, their needs are much too specific,” he said. “A lot of people think the answer is more education of the reptile and that people can be taught proper care. We just disagree. It doesn’t work.”
Watson sees it differently.
“Sure, they have their natural instincts. They like to drink, they like to eat and they’ll mate if you let them,” he said. “They’re just like any other animal.”
Although Watson and Fricker disagree on reptile ownership, they both acknowledge it’s important to understand the responsibility that comes with owning a pet before making a purchase. Neither wants to see an animal abandoned.
Local news from metronews.ca/vancouver
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