...because people do not educate themselves on the proper care of their new reptile pet before they purchase it.
Through my work in counseling and educating people who have problems with their dragons, I have come to realize that most people are well-meaning and did not intentionally neglect or otherwise cause harm to their pet. Most of the time, there was a lack of understanding of the reptile's basic needs, and usually the pet owner states that the bad advice that they were following was given to them directly at the time of the purchase, at the pet store. In my eyes, it is a shame that something so simple as pre-purchase education is being overlooked, or worse - that the pet stores are even considered as a main source of information for new keepers.
Before getting a new pet, before the purchase even happens, prospective owners need to do their research and make sure they can properly house and feed their new pet, and that they are willing to adhere to the correct feeding schedule, lighting needs, and financially able to provide veterinary care as needed. Reptiles are not 'easy' pets, as some people often mistakenly state. They require an above average understanding of the correct environment that needs to be replicated in their home. Factors such as room temperature, humidity and ability to keep live bugs must be carefully considered.
Before getting a new pet, before the purchase even happens, prospective owners need to do their research and make sure they can properly house and feed their new pet, and that they are willing to adhere to the correct feeding schedule, lighting needs, and financially able to provide veterinary care as needed. Reptiles are not 'easy' pets, as some people often mistakenly state. They require an above average understanding of the correct environment that needs to be replicated in their home. Factors such as room temperature, humidity and ability to keep live bugs must be carefully considered.
RIP Mojo. Deceased at his owner's home, was not eating for months and owner waited too long for help. Sorry we couldn't help you, Mojo.
RIP unnamed dragon. Deceased at owner's home while we were trying to arrange rescue. Had not eaten in months, had not moved in weeks, crusting and mucus in nostrils. I'm sorry we couldn't help you.
