Reptiles are not your everyday pets. However, for many animal lovers, they are fascinating and, as such, are part of many homes. If handled correctly, keeping one as a pet can be extremely rewarding.

When handling reptiles, always remember that these are not traditionally domesticated animals like dogs or cats that like to be petted. Hence regularly handling reptiles can cause them stress.

Like many other pets, it takes patience and time to hack how to handle them. Here are some tips you can use when handling your exotic reptile pet and keeping it stress-free.

Make its environment calming

Ensure that its cage is close to its natural habitats in terms of appearance and temperatures. This will give it a calming feel, increasing its chances of adapting to its new home faster.

Always handle the pet at its cage first before introducing it to other environments that do not match its natural habitats. Like any other pet, give the reptile some time to adapt to its new home before you start handling it. It will take at least a week for it to settle in. While waiting for it to get comfortable in its new home, occasionally spend time around its cage for it to get used to the presence of human beings.

Maintain a calm demeanour

When handling a reptile pet, confidence is key. If it can sense your fear, it is likely to deem you a threat and might react by biting to protect itself. Showing your pet that you are uneasy can make it lash at you because your anxiety causes them anxiety. So whenever you are around your reptile, ensure that you are calm, gentle and use slow movements when approaching it. Be keen to note any forms of discomfort such as thrashing, squirming, hissing before touching it. Keep an eye on their head as this is the first indicator when the animal feels aggravated or uncomfortable.

Handle reptiles with care

Since reptiles are exotic animals that can harm you, you’ll need to be prepared in case it bites you. When this happens, do not show panic as this might aggravate the situation. Try your best to put the reptile back to its home as calmly as you can, first and then get medical help.

Wash your hands before and after handling your reptile

Salmonella can be live in healthy reptiles without making them sick. However, when exposed to humans, these bacteria can cause serious health issues such as vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. To avoid contamination, make sure to clean your hands after holding your pet to get rid of any harmful bacteria that you might have collected.

Additionally, make sure you have washed your hands before holding your pet to get rid of any smell that might trigger them into thinking that your hand is food. Always keep their head pointed away from your body and face.

If you need additional help to keep your pet calm, consider using natural calming products. They help stressed pets be calmer, attentive, and receptive to their owners without sedating them. Visit our shop today to check out our products.