Why do people keep reptiles?

In this heartwarming short interview, we meet Tara, a passionate reptile keeper who is keen to change the way people see these often misunderstood animals.

For Tara, it’s not just about owning a fascinating pet. It’s about connection, education, and an appreciation for creatures way more intelligent and rewarding than many expect. See for yourself why a reptile might just be the perfect pet you never considered.

Tara is part of the #EducateDontBerate movement.

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SCRIPT

Why is a snake a more attractive or suitable pet for you than, I don’t know, a cat, a dog, a guinea pig?

So my work, I do quite a lot of shift work and I can’t go home and walk a dog or let the cat out. And a reptile is really suitable because I only have to go and see him once a day. He’s got everything he needs.

I’ve done research on him and I find him really interesting. And they’re just great animals and I feel like people don’t understand them enough.

And by having him, I’m also teaching other people about them a bit more. I’m constantly, bigging them up to people because they’re great and then they meet him and they’re like, “No, he’s brilliant, I can see why you’ve got them.”

I’ve got a friend who’s now looking at getting a snake and she was absolutely terrified of them as a child.

I think the movement of getting reptiles is becoming bigger and I don’t blame people for that.