Recently, on All My Children Wear Fur Coats, Bill Stewart shared insightful knowledge on caring for reptiles and recognizing their therapeutic applications.
Bill Stewart is the facility director for Badgerland Reptile Rescue, an organization that finds homes for displaced reptiles and amphibians. As a lifetime reptile enthusiast, Bill is passionate about educating the public on reptile behavior and health, their incredible adaptability, and their importance to the environment. He passionately supports reptile advocacy, underscoring that these creatures are often misunderstood and feared.
Most reptiles surrendered to Badgerland are a result of changes in their owners’ life circumstances. Bill suggested that the longer lifespan of reptiles can sometimes be problematic. While pets like guinea pigs and hamsters typically have lifespans of just a few years, many reptiles can live for a decade or longer. Moreover, a child who adopts a reptile may experience significant life changes, develop new interests, and eventually leave home for college. If you are interested in adopting a reptile from Badgerland, please submit an animal adoption application.
When asked about the most common reptile ailments, Bill explained that he sees dehydration as the most prevalent issue, primarily due to an owner’s lack of awareness. Many reptiles struggle to detect still water; they need to see it in motion to recognize it as a source of hydration. Bill also mentioned parasitic infections, including Adenovirus, a highly contagious viral infection that can often remain asymptomatic. As a safety precaution, reptiles that are surrendered to Badgerland are quarantined and tested for parasites prior to their introduction to the reptile population. Bill noted that the stoic nature of reptiles makes it difficult to diagnose illnesses.
Bill highlighted the often-overlooked therapeutic potential of reptiles. In his work as a child psychologist, he uses reptiles to engage children with ADHD, asserting that the unique sensory experience they offer can significantly benefit their focus and interaction. Additionally, Bill employs reptiles to teach coping mechanisms, such as encouraging children to find their own “shell” for safety and comfort, much like a turtle.
While some people argue that reptiles can’t bond with their owners like dogs or cats, Bill asserts that genuine emotional connections with these scaly companions is still entirely possible. While reptile ownership may not be suitable for everyone, he encourages those interested to consider adoption. After all, every reptile deserves the chance to live its best life.
If you would like to learn more about Badgerland Reptile Rescue, please visit BadgerlandReptileRescue.com. View adoptable reptiles at MorphMarket.com/Stores/BadgerlandRescue. Follow Badgerland on social media at Facebook.com/BaderlandReptileRescue
Ensure your beloved pet is protected with a Pet Trust! For more information, please visit ACT4Pets.org
