Was There Any Other Option - Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles and Amphibians may not be the most popular of care-choice in the UK but we think they should be considered. Let's explore why and see if we can sway your mind.

Leading pets owned by households in the United Kingdom (UK) 2024 (Published by Statista Research Department, Nov 25, 2025)

Herptiles are the weird-looking and extreme-side of the pet industry in the UK. They are not often seen in nature by the general public. There may be a question of whether they actually exist. The closest I've seen, to a reptile or amphibian, would be seeing tadpoles, in my friend's pond, when i was young. Perhaps, this is the reason why we're not desensitised to them - lack of interaction.

Shannon Casey (MSc -conservation and biodiversity; BSc - zoology with herpetology) says

"I got into the reptile keeping hobby very young, I was around 9 when I held my first snake and immediately became fascinated by them and ended up getting my own snake to take care of for my 10th birthday and have been enthralled with herps ever since and have since went on to keep multiple different species.

I’ve also seen this same story play out multiple times too ! I’ve done some volunteering with reptile handling groups for educational purposes and have watched children (and parents) develop that same fascination from holding their first snake as well which is so lovely to see"

We can compare them to music. Metalcore or Screamo genres are relatable to the herptile world. More cult than mainstream, outcast than insider. Brutal and Violent. Alice Cooper, the legendary rock music artist, used Boa Constrictors as a prop, during his live gigs.

Dogs and Cats are pop or classical. Mainstream, loving and affectionate. The song 'puppy love' by Paul Anka or 'What's new pussy cat' by Tom Jones come to mind. Both pet-choices are totally different ends of the spectrum.

Looks Could Kill

Is it as simple as having an opinion? Are herptiles ugly or cute animals? Totally up to the individual. A dog, for example, can be fluffy with big eyes and floppy ears. That's nice to look at and be around. Herptiles are the complete opposite. Not as loving, completely smooth, rough or slimey. Humans are naturally inclined to gravitate towards the soft and nicer-looking exterior.

However, reptiles and amphibians come in all shapes, sizes and fascinating colours. Dart Frogs and Green Tree Pythons spring to mind. There are exceptions to the cuteness too, such as the Leopard Gecko and the amphibian, Axolotl. Both look like they have a permanent smile etched on their faces.

Happy-looking Axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum

Some look quite humorous (Chameleon and Bearded Dragon). A Chameleon has eyes that look like they can move in any direction and claws that resemble padded oven-gloves. Bearded Dragons always look suspicious and inquisitive of us humans, making moves outside of their domain.

Bearded Dragon Ex-Situ

Veiled Chameleon Chamaeleo calyptratus

Colours are in abundance. Think of a rainbow. Any colour you like. These can change too with their mood or as they age. That beauty usually culminates in different patterns going across their body, limbs and head. It is important to point out that you shouldn't pick a pet based solely on their colour but we are drawn through our senses.

Perching Green Tree Python Morelia viridis

Ex-Situ Poison Dart Frog Dendrobates tinctorius

Live-in-mate

Our herptiles would be behind some sort of enclosure so if you need time away from them then you can.

A dog or cat would likely be by your side most, if not all, of the time. They will share most, if not all, of your living-space.

Grass Snake Natrix natrix being held

A herpetile's behaviour could be said to be as inquisitive as a dog or cat. A small scute friend will explore if you let them. Depending on the species though, some are nocturnal so if you are a night-owl then they could keep you company through lonely nights.

It's a niche market. There are not many people, who can say 'they own a 5-foot-long Boa Constrictor'. A very specialised segment. Sometimes owners drift between popular and non-popular. Others stay loyal to either with a burning desire.

External Factors

Both are costly investments. Upwards of £1,000, just for the animal in some cases. Add in Vet, gas and electric bills and all the resource materials needed then you would be looking at double that (that's if you are doing right by them and caring for them properly). Cheaper routes can be taken but let's do what's best by them and not us.

Time-consuming can sum up the care of each counterpart. It should take time but enjoyable at the same time. Daily maintenance is crucial for some species. There is an exception with herptiles, they can sustain themselves without micro-management, for a while, in captivity. An adult snake can live happily, a couple of weeks, without any food. Although that doesn't mean they don't need regular cleaning of their enclosure, for example.

Dogs and Cats need round-the-clock support if necessary. Much more of a hands-on-approach is required. Fulfilling their mental and physical needs is an everyday task, and a full day's work. Reptiles and Amphibians need enrichment also but it is much easier to do so by making small adjustments here and there.

Tara Gupta (MSc Biodiversity and Conservation | BSc Zoology with Herpetology) states:

"I think their (herptiles) overall maintenance is low such as not having to walk it every day and feed it all the time. I personally keep a reptile as I’m allergic to anything with fur or hair so it’s very convenient for me! And they make amazing companions with such unique personalities." 

Shannon announces the same chimes:

"I also think reptiles can be much more manageable to take care of then a dog or a cat depending on the species, most species won’t need to eat multiple times a day, or be walked, no fur either to clean up so I believe that keeping herptiles would appeal to many more people if they gave them the chance :)" 

Final Thoughts

Any route you go down will lead to responsibility. It is our duty to care and give animals the best support they need. If you have the money and time to put in then do so, if you don't then i say 'get out of the road' - stay away from having a 'pet'.

Herptiles are the easier choice in my opinion but can not be the most fun or interactive of choices, depending on the species. Losing interest is the main danger, therefore there has to be careful consideration and research done before adopting any small creature.