Frequently Asked Questions
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Download Application (Word format) Application as a .jpg file (print, fill out, return via snail mail or scan/email)
No, we do not ship any of our animals. You must be willing to drive to our location in Mobile, AL. If you can not make the trip, look for a reputable reptile rescue closer to your home.
How much do you charge?Our adoption vary from species to species, and we try to keep them as reasonable as possible. Adoption fees will be doubled for anyone calling between the hours of 10pm and 7am.
There is none, we do not ship animals.
These animals rescues, so why do you have to charge at all?Yes, the majority of these animals were rescues or owner surrenders. The adoption fee, while never enough to recoup our costs helps in the ongoing needs, including but not limited to vet care, of these specialized animals.
What kind of supplies will I need?Supplies needed will vary from animal to animal. Lights, enclosures, substrates, food, hiding spots and basking or perching spots are usually required for all of our rescues, and you will be responsible for having all of this in place prior to taking possession of the animal.
How much will all that stuff cost?It will not be cheap. You can expect to spend a minimum of $100 on your *creature comforts*. To get approximate prices, visit your local pet store and make sure an exotic pet is right for you.
I am ready, how do I go about adopting one?Simple. Use the application link to download our app, fill it out, and then email it back to us. Filling out the application, however, does NOT mean that you will be approved. Please do not ask us if we ship.
What kind of animals do you take?We currently take exotic snakes of all kinds, most exotic lizards, arachnids, amphibians, birds, ferrets, sugar gliders, chinchillas, etc. Venomous (hot) reptiles are never acceptted. We also do not take in alligators or crocs. If in doubt, email or call us and we will let you know. In many cases, even if we can not take your animal in, we will attempt to place it for you.
Do you charge to take an animal?No, we do not charge, but will accept any supplies that you wish to turn over with your animal.
Where do you keep all these animals?Most of these animals live here in our home while awaiting adoption. We also use several foster homes.
Is my animal going to get good care?Yes! We keep each animal in an appropriate sized enclosure, with safe substrate, proper lighting and heating, a constant supply of clean water, and a safe hidey hole. We supply a well rounded, animal specific diet for each animal in our care. When needed, we medicate any sick animals under the care of our vets, Dr. Linda Knight and Dr. Chris Barr.
How can I contact you to surrender an animal?You can reach us through email at this link or call us between the hours of 8am and 8pm at 251-662-7847. You may bring it to us, or we will arrange to pick it up from you.
I have an animal I no longer want, can I trade you for something else?No. We are not retailers and do not trade. If you no longer want or can care for your animal, please don not use it as a leverage device for a new pet.
Do you take local species?No. We highly recommend that you return all native species back into their home environment. If they are injured, (and you are local to Mobile, AL), contact the Environmental Studies Center at (251) 221-5000.
Why not just let it go? It is a wild animal after all.Simply put, DO NOT DO IT!! Except in the rare case that you have been keeping a local species (see above question) releasing your pet can cause many problems. The animal is most likely captive bred, and has no idea of how to protect itself in the wild. Even if it did, this is not its home environment and it will most likely meet death quickly. In the event it lives, it could upset the natural flora and fauna. There is no need to release an exotic pet into the wild when there are organizations willing and able to take it from you and help place it in a new loving home.
I feel bad surrendering to a rescue. Would it not it be better to just find the animal a good home myself?That is entirely up to you. By surrendering your pet, you are in no way being a irresponsible or bad pet owner. In fact, the opposite is true. You are showing that the needs of your pet come first. We take pride in the care we lavish on all animals in our home, and will find a suitable home for each, or keep them ourselves.
Does a reptile really need a vet?Yes. Reptiles can get sick just like any other animal. Mites, intestinal parasites and respiratory tract infections are commonly seen in animals lacking vet care. You may also encounter more serious problems like calcium deficiency, bone disease or pneumonia. All of these problems are easily prevented with proper care, and most are treatable with vet care.
Is there a vet that treats reptiles?Doctors Linda Knight and Chris Barr of Animal Care Center in Mobile treat all exotic pets. Dr. Ed Peitrzk of University Animal Hospital also does exotic care.
I still have questions. Now what?Call us at 251-662-7847. We will help.
