The ‘Beginner Pet’ Label Sells but it’s Damaging.

Why are certain reptiles, such as Bearded Dragons & Tortoises frequency labelled as beginner or easy? 

Firstly because it appeals to a wider target audience and secondly because it sells.

From personal experience it seems the animals which make it into these category’s are typically more tolerant of handling and considered more aesthetically pleasing when compared to other ‘classic’ Reptiles. Besides from that, as far as husbandry goes, their needs are still very complex and tricky to master in a captive home setting. 

We have personality encountered many individuals over the years who have bought pets under these claims but later felt like they really struggled to meet their needs, which ultimately caused them a lot of distress. 

This often comes after being met with a barrage of conflicting advice, faced with sudden undesirable behavioural changes, unexpected medical problems & even sudden expected death.

It's good to remember to take such black and white animal claims like these with a pinch of salt.  They are designed to sell, not take either the animals or potential owners individual needs into account.