Before you bring home that green iguana or box turtle, you better consult your "Reptile 101 Care Manual" and consider these tips from Dr. Mark Mitchell, a veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Mitchell is completing a masters degree in epidemiology, and has a special interest in treating reptiles.

Lizards, snakes, and turtles are all reptiles.  There are some great reasons to own a reptile pet, according to Dr. Mitchell.  They are unique, colorful, and interesting to observe.  They're also quiet, great for apartment-sized environments, and some species don't require daily feedings.  However, reptiles do require precise care, and need to be thoroughly researched before being purchased.

"Most cases of sick reptiles that I see are due to poor husbandry or management skills," states Dr. Mitchell.

He explains that the physical requirements of reptiles are as diverse as the number of reptiles that exist.  Each type of reptile has a special diet, space, temperature range, light, and terrain needs.  Because of these special requirements, reptiles make much better pets for adults than children.  Dr. Mitchell encourages that adults always supervise children when around reptile pets.

Dr. Mitchell has treated reptile patients for a variety of health problems.  The more common areas include unsuitable environmental temperatures and humidity levels, mismatched dietary requirements, and improper care of feet and skin.  For example, improper temperature and humidity can result in irregular shedding or weight loss in reptiles because they generate their body heat from the environment.

To avoid possible health problems, Dr. Mitchell urges potential owners to find out what type of environment the reptile needs before it is purchased and brought home.  "Contact a veterinarian who treats reptiles, or a serious reptile breeder, " he suggests, "or visit a local pet store or library."  Once information is obtained, the potential owner can decide if the appropriate environment can be established and necessary care provided.

"I recommend purchasing reptiles that have been raised in a captive environment.  They tend to be more hardy.  Imported reptiles have more problems with stress, disease, and parasites," says Dr. Mitchell.

He stresses that veterinary care, including regular check-ups, is extremely important for your reptile pet.  Reptiles are prone to the same type of health problems as mammals.  Signs of illness include sudden change in coloration, change in stool, loss of appetite, and abnormal activity.  It's important to consult your veterinarian when you notice a change.

He notes that certain types of reptiles, including snakes and some turtles, eat prey such as rodents or insects.  If their prey has not had adequate nutrition, the reptile can be affected.  Always purchase your prey from a reputable supplier.  He also sees a number of cases where the prey (mouse or rat) has injured the reptile pet.  He recommends always feeding pre-killed prey.

Dr. Mitchell notes that some restrictions apply on reptile purchases.  For example, it's against the law to purchase turtles less than four inches long and snakes over six feet long.  It's also illegal to own venomous snakes.  For specific information on reptile/exotic animals in your area, contact local or state authorities.