Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar
Round dog and cat logo

Terrace Heights Family Pet Clinic

(509) 452-1262

Open mobile navigation
  • Home
    • About Us
      • Meet our team
  • New Patient Center
    • Online Forms
    • Payment Options
    • Contact Us
      • Appointment Request
  • Services
    • Urgent Care
    • Nutritional Counseling
    • Wellness Exams
    • Therapeutic Laser
    • Senior Care
    • Puppy and Kitten
    • Pain Management
    • Microchipping
    • Pharmacy
    • Dental Services
    • Vaccinations
    • Surgery
    • Radiology
    • Parasites
    • Boarding
  • Blog
  • Pet Parent Resources
    • Veterinarian Recommended Websites
  • Pet Portal
  • Vetsource: Online Store
  • Petimonials
  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Choosing Your Pet >
  • Reptiles

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 consticting 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.

  • We Help Your Pet With
    • Chronic Conditions
    • Digestive and Oral Health
    • Diseases and Viruses
    • Pests and Parasites
    • Orthopedics
  • Today's Veterinarian
  • Choosing Your Pet
    • Birds
    • Cats
    • Dogs
    • Ferrets
    • Rabbits
    • Reptiles
      • Lizards
      • Turtles
  • Living With Your Pet
    • Bringing Your Pet Home
    • Providing Care
    • Travel
    • Saying Goodbye
  • Finding Your Pet
  • Newsletter Library
    • Tips for Pet Owners
    • Fleas & Parasites
    • Equine
    • Visiting the Vet
    • Unbelievable Pets
    • Seasonal Topics
    • Pet Dangers
    • Nutrition & Food
    • Recognizing Illness
    • Cats
    • Keeping Pets Healthy
    • Fun with Pets
    • Behavior & Training
  • Video Newsroom
    • Health Topics
    • Technology and Science
    • Other Interests
  • Pets4Kids
  • Feline
No form settings found. Please configure it.

We Treat Your Pets Like Family!

  • Make An Appointment

    We will do our best to accommodate your busy schedule. Schedule an appointment today!

    Read More
  • New Patient Form

    Our new patient form is available online so It can be completed conveniently at home before your appointment

    Read More
  • Services

    We strive to provide complete care for our patients. Learn more about all the services we provide.

    Read More

Office Hours

Monday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-12:30 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

8:30 am-11:00 am

Sunday:

Closed

Location

Petimonials

  • "Brought my kitty over mid treatment for urinary issues after a horrid experience with another vet. The staff were amazing and kitty loved them! Love love love this clinic!"
    Nancie C.
  • "Dr. Hays and his team are 100% dependable in providing the highest quality care for our 4 legged family members. I can count on them to be kind, efficient, and highly competent."
    Barbara A.

Featured Articles

  • Identifying Dementia in Senior Dogs

    Have you noticed changes in your older dog's behavior? ...

    Read More
  • Keep Your Pets Safe From Toxic Household Items

    Do you know which household items can sicken your pet? ...

    Read More
  • Preventing Obesity in Cats

    Even one extra pound could affect your pet's health. Find out how you can keep your cat slim and trim. ...

    Read More
  • Pet Dental Care - Tips to Manage Your Pet’s Oral Health

    Do you know how to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy? ...

    Read More
  • Learn How to Master Walking Your Dog for Walk Your Pet Month

    Does your dog need a little help walking on a leash? ...

    Read More
  • Bringing a New Pet in the Home in the New Year

    Are you planning on adding a pet to your family this year? These tips will help you prepare for the arrival of your furry, feathered, or finned friend. ...

    Read More
  • Cold Symptoms in Dogs

    Could your sneezing, sniffling dog have a cold? ...

    Read More
  • Cold Weather Pet Safety

    Do you know how to keep your pet safe this winter? ...

    Read More
  • Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays

    Keep Thanksgiving day safe for your pet by following these tips. ...

    Read More
  • November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

    Do you know the symptoms that can occur if your pet has cancer? ...

    Read More

Newsletter Sign Up

No social media links found. Please configure it
  • Copyright © 2021 MH Sub I, LLC dba iMatrix.
  • Admin Log In