Do you have a reptile? Have you ever wondered about taking your pet for a walk? This actually isn’t as unusual as it may seem. Some lizards really enjoy going for strolls! However, there are some things to consider before taking your pet out for a jaunt. A Galena, MD vet lists some key ones below.

Familiarization

Don’t try to take your pet for a walk the first day you get the little guy. Give him time to get used to you and learn to trust you.

Gear

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing lizard harnesses. With some lizards, such as bearded dragons, you can find things made just for them. Others can be a bit tricker. Be careful with pets that have spinal ridges: you don’t want to cause injuries! Ferret harnesses may work.

Training

Start by letting your little buddy wear his harness indoors, under supervision. If your pet likes to hang out on you while you watch TV, this is a good time to let them get used to it. If your tiny dragon seems scared, remove the harness and try again later.

Location

Once your lizard is ready for a walk, you can venture outside. Picking the right spot is very important. Stay away from places with potential hazards, such as scorching-hot sidewalks, broken glass, and chemicals, such as fertilizers. Needless to say, a dog park isn’t a good option, either. Keep in mind that some lizards are very fast, while others are great at climbing trees. You’ll need to be very careful to make sure that your reptilian pal doesn’t get away!

Temperature

As you probably know, reptiles are cold-blooded, and regulate their temperature by moving from warmer to cooler areas. Don’t take your pet outdoors when it’s hotter or cooler than their ideal temperature range.

Food

Many reptiles eat bugs and insects. While you may not be able to keep your iguana from snapping at a fly, try not to let him eat wild bugs. They could be carrying diseases or parasites!

Personality

Not all reptiles enjoy being walked. Watch for signs that your pet is scared, such as agitation, trembling, or color changes. If your little pal seems uneasy, just let him stay in.

Please contact us if ever we can be of assistance. As your Galena, MD animal clinic, we’re here for you!