Reptile Ordinance City of Columbia’s animal code, Section 4-91, lists numerous animals that are prohibited in the city. The ordinance prohibits alligators, crocodiles, caimans and the following species of snakes: reticulated python (python reticulatus); Burmese/Indian rock python (python molurus); and rock python (python sebae) and anaconda (eunectes murinus). Venomous reptiles and lizards over two feet and belonging to the family varanidae are also prohibited. Richland County’s code contains the same restrictions. Lexington County has an exotic animal ordinance (search under Animal Control at lex-co.com), but it is less restrictive than those in the City of Columbia and Richland County. For further questions, city residents should call 776-7387; Richland County residents should call 576-2461 or email animalcare@richlandonline.com. Lexington County residents can call 785-8149.
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Reptiles — The Other Pets
Lucky for Columbians, Repticon, one of the largest reptile and exotic animal conventions, happens here three times a year. The convention provides those with an interest in reptiles the opportunity to interact with breeders, owners and fellow reptile lovers. The reptile industry is unique in that it has moved almost exclusively online. Pet owners order reptiles online, get advice in online forums and sometimes even seek out veterinary care advice through online resources. However, this isn’t to say that there is no local reptile community. Reptile owners are encouraged to connect with people in their area in addition to seeking out information
By Sarah Robbins
W
hile dogs and cats are the most common pets around, with birds close behind, there are a lot of other domesticated options — and we’re not talking hamsters and bunnies. Reptiles and amphibians are growing in popularity as the new household pet. There are many reasons people choose reptiles as pets: the wow factor, no pet dander, you don’t have to walk them and they don’t make much noise. Plus, you don’t have to train a reptile to use a litter box. But reptiles lovers — or herps, as they call themselves (it’s short for herpetology) — will caution you that research is a crucial first step before choosing a reptile. With many different animals to choose from, from bearded dragons to tortoises to frogs, there is a lot to consider in choosing which reptile may be right for you.
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Resources Cheatham Animal Clinic 7354 1/2 Garners Ferry Rd., 776-4554
“It is very important that you know the specifics of the reptile that you’re going to get before you get it so that you can be prepared,” says Dr. Mark Foy with the Sunset Animal Clinic. Important considerations, Foy says, are how big the animal will get over the course of its life and the availability of the animal’s natural food source. “You’ve got to know the animal,” he says. “You need to know what it would naturally get in the wild and then how to reproduce that in captivity.”
Sunset Animal Clinic sunsetanimalclinic.com 127 Professional Ave. (West Columbia), 791-5575 Animal Supply House animalsupplyhouse.com 1680 Lake Murray Blvd., 461-1781 7519 Garners Ferry Rd. #8, 647-7400 Pet Supplies Plus petsuppliesplus.com 1001 Harden St. #H, 252-7021
online. The South Carolina Association of Reptile Keepers (scark.org) can help, too. Foy cautions against relying solely on one source for your information. He says books are also a helpful resource, as it establishing a relationship with a local veterinarian. After lots of research and deciding what the right reptile for you will be, it is important to order from a reputable breeder. If you get a reptile that is already sick, it can be difficult, and expensive, to bring the animal back to health. A good breeder will be happy to answer your questions and be available after the sale has been made. They’ll want to know that their “babies” are in good hands.
“You’ve got to know the animal. You need to know what it would naturally get in the wild and then how to reproduce that in captivity.” — Veterinarian Mark Foy Additionally, an initial post-purchase exam is advisable. A veterinarian can check for parasites as well as any other problems the reptile might have. If you take your reptile to the veterinarian before they are sick, then the vet may have a better idea of how to help if your beloved snake comes down with a cold. The Sunset Animal Clinic in West Columbia and the Cheatham Animal Clinic both have veterinarians who specialize in reptile care. Additionally, having a good local supplier of food and care items, such as heat lamps and special washes, is an important step. Pet Supplies Plus and the Animal Supply House have good reputations among the herp community for carrying a wide variety of items. If you’re considering getting a reptile, make plans to attend Repticon July 14-15 at the Jamil Temple to connect with others in the area and have a chance to get up close and personal with many of the creatures. Let us know what you think: Email editor@free-times.com.
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