Bowral Veterinary Hospital has a particular interest in reptile care and is able to provide all the advice and treatment required to ensure your reptile is kept in the best of health. 

Most native reptiles are protected by Law which means they cannot be kept as pets. Usually only zoos and fauna parks are given permits to hold these animals. Non-native reptiles are even more stringently controlled by Law as they pose significant risk to Australian ecosystems.

If you’ve found or rescued a reptile, tortoise, lizard, crocodile, snake or frog, it’s best to immediately arrange with an organisation like WIRES for the animal to be released back into the wild.

Reptiles and Frogs as Pets
Keeping non-protected native reptiles as pets requires special care and handling. Tortoises, lizards, snakes and frogs require certain living environments and healthcare routines. In general, most reptiles are shy animals and handling should be minimal.

**VENOMOUS SNAKES, LIZARDS OR TOADS SHOULD NOT BE KEPT AS PETS**

Health Problems
Keeping reptiles as pets is much more involved than common pets, so health problems are often encountered due to the incorrect housing, temperatures, humidity and diet.  Problems can present from parasitic diseases caused by intestinal worms, skin mites, and a variety of infections and injuries. Ensure that you bring your reptile in for medical attention at the first signs of sickness or injury.

Professional Advice
All reptiles have specialised needs. Please visit our clinic to discuss the needs of your reptile with our veterinary staff at the earliest possible opportunity.