lizards on a log

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 constricting 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.

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Monday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

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Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Dr. Janssen is a consummate veterinarian who does a terrific job with my dog. He is gentle and thorough and really knows his stuff. He has a great staff of assistants that are friendly to clients and their pets. 10/10 would recommend."
    Travis Drow
  • "We were met with a friendly welcome the minute we arrived and the staff handled my dog with great care. She became at ease with them very quickly. I would recommend Janssen Clinic without reservation and will continue to have them treat my dog for all her veterinary needs."
    Paula Behling
  • "Janssen Animal Clinic has always been wonderful to Bagel, my almost 18 yr old Border Terrier. Dr. Janssen and his staff are courteous, professional, and treat Bagel with lots of TLC. Dr. Janssen is very thorough with his exams and always ready to listen to my questions and answer them in a manner that I can understand."
    Linda Barrett
  • "We have a 5 star rating from 99.1% of our clients!

    We've been bringing our pets to Janssen Clinic since 1998. Dr. Janssen and his team are the best. I never struggle trying to get in for an appointment & they are so kind and good with my pets. Dr. Janssen is very calm & caring. My dog is high strung & extremely attached to me. She calms down quickly in their office, however, because of their ability to soothe her. We wouldn't go anywhere else."
    - Sharon and Kendall D / Middleton, WI