As reptile pets become
more common due to social media exposure, reptile expos and a younger
generation that has more interest in them, those living in homes with existing
pets aren’t sure what to make of it. Bringing a snake or iguana into your home
may be intimidating for some people. But, when you add a dog into the mix it
gets even more confusing.
Having a dog doesn’t
instantly mean bringing a reptile into your home is impossible, but you do want
to ensure both your dog or dogs and new reptile are going to stay safe.
Preparation is Key
Keeping dogs and
reptiles in the same home is possible. To do so successfully though requires
proper preparation. Here are three tips to ensure a happy home for all.
Choose the Right
Reptile
Not all reptiles are OK
in homes with dogs. For example, toads are toxic to dogs if accidentally eaten.
Of course you don’t want your dog to eat your reptile pet, but accidents
happen.
Keeping iguanas in
houses that have dogs is also generally frowned upon unless you can keep them
completely separated at all times. Iguanas can be aggressive and they can also
get extremely stressed from just seeing dogs.
On the other hand most
snakes couldn’t care less if there’s a dog around. They should still be kept
safely away from the dog, but if a curious dog gets into the room where you
keep your snake, their sniffing around the enclosure won’t stress your snake
out.
Security is Paramount
No matter what reptile
you choose to keep as a pet, they will need some type of enclosure. If you
choose one that requires a completely sealed enclosure like a frog or a gecko,
you’ll want to make sure they are always secure. You don’t need your bullfrog
or crested gecko wandering freely around your home.
Even very popular
reptile pets like ball pythons require a little more attention when there’s a
dog nearby. Though they’re a fairly easy species to care for some will turn into escape artists if the
enclosure you use is not completely secure.
For an added level of
security keep them in a room that is not accessible by your dog. For example,
keeping your reptile in a finished basement or a home office with a door you
can lock are great ways to add a second level of security between them and your
dog.
You Know Your Dog
When it comes to keeping
dogs and reptiles in the same home, the most important factor isn’t the
reptile. The most important factor is your dog.
Some dogs have
experience with stumbling across reptiles outside. Did they find a box turtle
outside, show a little curiosity then lose interest? Maybe they’ll be OK with a
reptile in the house.
Or, do they go crazy
whenever they see anything move?
If you have an overly
inquisitive dog or a very aggressive and protective one, you’ll need to think hard if bringing a
reptile in your home is worth it. It doesn’t mean you can’t do so, but you will
want to go above and beyond keeping them away from one another at all
times.
In Summary
Dogs and reptiles can
live in the same home. You will need to prepare appropriately and choose the
right type of reptile pet, but if you really want one don’t let dog ownership
make you feel like it’s impossible.
Take your time, do your
research and think about how you can keep both pets safe and you’re sure to
have a rewarding experience.