PetSmart to host Reptile Roundup party

Have you always wanted to hold a reptile? Are you thinking of adding one of these curious creatures to your family?

PetSmart is hosting a Reptile Roundup party June 22 from 12 – 2 p.m. at stores across the country.

It’s a free event for families that allows people to check out the reptile species available at the store.

The party includes a free photo, opportunities to meet and hold reptiles and the chance to build a mini-habitat

Some reptiles, with proper care, can live between 40 – 60 years. It’s important to keep that in mind when deciding to bring a reptile in to your home.

The document Scales and Tales: The Welfare and Trade of Pets in Canada, the World Society for the Protection of Animals notes, “It is important for people considering adopting a reptile, to consider how much space the reptile needs.”

The organization suggests that people answer the questions following.

Is there enough space for natural locomotion and the expression of the full range of natural behaviours?
Is there enough space for each reptile to feel secure. In other words, is the space sufficient to avoid violating the animal’s fight or flight response?
What are the consequences of not providing enough space?

Not taking the time to thoroughly weigh the pros and cons of adopting a reptile into your family can add to the current state of poor reptile welfare.

The current state includes, but is not limited to the belief that reptiles are simple, highly adaptable animals that do well in captivity, poor quality information given to purchasers of reptiles as pets and difficulty recognizing distress and suffering in captive reptiles.

Although there is a lot to consider when making the decision to add a pet to your family, it’s great to do research before heading into a pet store.

PetSmart employees will also be on hand to answer questions from customers.

In celebration of Reptile Month, reptiles will be 50 percent off with the purchase of a Zoo Med habitat.

To check out if your local PetSmart is hosting a Reptile Roundup Party near you, visit their website.