All about our Reptile Rescue Program!

[@natalieread789]

I wish all pet stores and rescues had more strict policies when it comes to adopting. Proving you have a proper enclosure (or buying one on site) is the bare minimum you should be able and willing to do. If you can’t do that you don’t deserve an animal 😌

[@terezavajs4486]

We have a small exotic animal store in town and they are super strict about this requiring you to bring picture of the prepared enclosure and make sure that you had heating running for few days before you bought the animal. They are amazing and make sure so much care is taken of animals they sell. Honestly this should be required for most pets but especially exotics.

[@dominiqueblackraven]

Agreed. It's sadly a serious problem in most pet hobbies and I feel that allot of pet stores and some breeders not asking *any* questions and offering difficult and large species on stock to just anyone without questions or information causing impulse purchases are a big reason for it from what I've seen.
I'm super happy to see SD being critical about the housing of the animals to customers for the sake of the animals wellbeing. It's heart breaking to see how some people think that they can house an animal species that can become 4 foot or more when adult, like a crocodilian or a large predatory fish, in a 5 foot enclosure for it's entire life and then not being able to find a bigger home for it when it becomes full grown. Causing the animal to be stuck with all the consequences of a too small of an enclosure, similar to what happened to Rex from what I remember before SD took care of her however not many animals are as lucky as Rex was.

[@aristeohernandez5044]

I work at a pet store and I have to defend myself from the manager and the costumer about the animal care and needs but I always stood my ground but honestly it’s very tiring when the stores want to make a quick buck and the costumer don’t do the research and expect the employees to get them every just to complain it’s too expensive.

[@terezavajs4486]

@@aristeohernandez5044 You are doing great work. I feel like parents whose child has been begging for a beardy or gecko must be difficult cause like they dont wanna spend too much on pet kid might get bored of eventually and they dont care much about in the first place.

[@aristeohernandez5044]

@@terezavajs4486 thank you ! And agreed

[@cruelaz]

Sadly the bad google review thing is very common also in shelters. We have people calling us names etc bc we dont want to give em a single six week old kitten. We tell them all about what age are appropriate what requirements we have etc and then they leave and write a review how nasty we are. Always appreciated

[@harmonicaveronica]

Six week old kittens are cute! Cats with behavior problems because they weren't properly socialized are less cute

[@cruelaz]

@@harmonicaveronica exactly plus we dont give out kittens alone if they are not going to other cats.

[@cruelaz]

we realized that people write more reviews when they are upset so to tackle that we ask people who adopted a pet if they have the time and muse to write a honest review but also no pressure

[@XLightChanX]

@Ik i've seen a lot of places like vets and shelters (but also human-related like doctors) answering bad reviews, either in a way to help but most often to explain what ACTUALLY happened lol. it's really fun to read those sometimes

[@eliotdaoust3765]

I've work in pet stores and vet clinic and you see very similar situations. Its part of the work i think

[@xXAircatXx]

Slim Shadey’s past owner here! I was so happy to see him on here! Thank you guys so much for taking him in, I wouldn’t trust anyone else 😊

[@DY1NGT0P4Z]

Why could you not take care of him?

[@swtch.s]

probably couldent afford

[@LittleBlueAngelDuck]

@@DY1NGT0P4Z life happens, a saying Emily uses often

[@jillianbetts4306]

@@DY1NGT0P4Z Could have been anything from not having the space, to not having the right financial situation (most likely because of covid, but that's not our place to ask). Or they could have just decided that a leopard gecko isn't the right pet for them. But like I said, it's not really our business as viewers.

[@grutarg2938]

It looks like you took good care of him, including surrendering him when you needed to. ❤

[@lesliejohnson2982]

One recommendation I have for your intake sheet that helped quite a bit in some cases for bird rescues - "Has this animal ever been to a vet? If yes, which vet and may we contact for records?" Most of the time the answer is no, BUT - sometimes you can get some invaluable info from the vet on the animal's previous care level/health issues. We had a plucking African Grey that turned out to have a fungal skin infection that was COMPLETELY treatable - but the owner was convinced it was behavioral.

[@eddiebaros]

⁵⁵

[@Bridg3otto]

It's a shame that people don't understand that you are trying to look out for the animal and not just make a buck. Everyone i met at SD were very polite and friendly and it's obvious you are generally caring and open people. Also over 250 animals adopted! That's amazing!

[@emberlyncrow3704]

I know right! They just want to ensure a secure future for the animals adopted out! :( It's sad to think people leave bad reviews just because things don't go their way.

[@JustTheFactsYall]

Everyone thinks it’s FREEEEEEEEE

[@kennorcott7074]

If you aren’t willing to pay some money for a reptile you aren’t going to take care of it. That’s just facts

[@JustTheFactsYall]

@@kennorcott7074 👍

[@Persephoneia01]

@@kennorcott7074 It's the same with kittens & puppies. Even just charging a nominal fee of $5/$10 deters a lot of impulse buyers and likely bad owners (though really it's better to charge a little more so people actually have to think about whether they want the animal or not).

[@WorkingonTwos]

The rescue I volunteer with has a wooden sign that says 'loving homes found' with number blocks you can hook on to it to show how many animals have been adopted that year. I think something like that would be great at Snake Discovery if you have room.

[@marieparsons9908]

That sounds great!

[@eliotdaoust3765]

Aaawwnnn yeah!

[@6Jas6devi6]

Or even have a book out with pictures of all the animals adopted, the book would be smaller but people could still see how many animals have found great homes!

[@khills]

Yes! The shelter we adopted our kitten from asks for updates for their website of happy endings, which is always so fun to look through.

[@dagmar0904]

@@6Jas6devi6 and since im sure some owners will make a social media about their new pet, they maybe could write the name down. That way you could see how its doing later :)

[@TheSilverLioness]

I'll never understand Karen's, "How dare you denied me a living breathing creature just because I don't have a picture of the cheap hamster cage I wanna put it. This is horrible customers service! Little Billie has had 3 lizards in the last month we have experience!!!"
Those 1 star reviews are just nuts

[@ilovekittens5937]

lol same

[@xMythStarx]

(All 3 lizards died 💀)

[@chloemisakiwisan7265]

The cheap hamster cage is even too small for hamsters!

[@zolfirthedragon]

​@@chloemisakiwisan7265 as they pretty much all are sadly

[@edwardhisse2687]

@@chloemisakiwisan7265 hamsters need like a whole room. I dont thknk ive seen a hamster setup without someone complainkng its still too small

[@sardsvib]

One thing I've always admired about Ed and Emily is how hard they've worked for animals that don't seem to have a chance. Nearly Headless Nick (may he rest in peace) was so severely injured that most people would probably give up. Ed and Emily didn't, though, and they hand fed him, kept him in a safe environment, monitored him. The fact that they care for every animal in their custody, makes me so happy.

[@villagersparky]

Not forgetting the deformed snapper that I believe they still care for.

[@canarysilvertail7706]

@@villagersparky Oh, the snapping turtle! They were in the Valentine's day vod 😁

[@Jellybeansatdusk]

@@canarysilvertail7706 is Chloe the one from the clutch the neighbor girls found on the beach? Glad to know they still have her and she is doing well.

[@canarysilvertail7706]

@@Jellybeansatdusk The snapper's name is definitely Chloe, I don't remember where she came from (just that they were in Rex's room before everyone went to the facility. But what I _do_ remember is that Chloe was one of the first animal to move to the zoo -even before it was finished-

[@Jellybeansatdusk]

@@canarysilvertail7706 yeah, I think the other person was referring to the sick snapper born from those eggs. He may not have made it, he had a lot of issues

[@LittleBlueAngelDuck]

Even though this Video has more of a serious tone, it's still educational and entertaining and that is amazing in my opinion. Educating people on a serious topic but still being positive, polite and entertaining is really rare and can be kind of difficult but is working out good I guess.

[@SomeOne-zw6kh]

I didn't even realize this could've been a bit of a controversial subject. She has a way of making everything seem really easy to have a conversation about. It feels like she tries to make the things she says come off as neutral as possible, and it works super well for her imo. She always comes across very empathetic / knowledgeable in the videos, and it's a really nice combination.

[@phangirlable]

I think this rare quality is the reason for the enormous success of this channel. And it's all extremely well deserved.

[@claire2088]

Sharon is giving me such 'old lady going for a walk through the neighbour seeing what all the kids are up to' vibes here

[@lavonakirtley9280]

She’s going for a “run” around her new neighborhood.

[@hadiyahabib7990]

I was looking for a comment like this bcoz thats what I thought too 👌😁

[@lavonakirtley9280]

Tortoise zoomies are apparently a thing… Who knew?

[@courtneyrichards3895]

I really like the requirements you guys have for adopting! It's not too strict and not too lenient. My local area has overly strict adoption requirements. Like if an owner passes away, the animal HAS to go back to the rescue. No matter if you got a dog, a bird, or a bunny from them. I'm sorry to hear people are leaving bad reviews over some fair and sensible rules.

[@whenimonmymoon6822]

Oof! I understand why they might to take the animal back, but I can vouch that taking in the pet of a loved one after passing is a wonderful way to heal.

[@MajiggerRose]

I think it should be a case by case basis. I've been burned before. When I fostered two kittens out to someone I trusted, he put them in a shelter two years later. I loved them and even though it's been 15 years, I desperately wish I'd made him sign an agreement give them back to me if he needed to. It still haunts me.
I'd say that it should be more like "you have to talk to us and let us vet the other person first if you need to surrender" so that person can also sign an agreement.

[@aebbingeable]

@@MajiggerRose or instead of a "have to..." make it a "feel free to contact us about anything" or something like that. It is more open that way.

[@lemolea9571]

I mean that makes sense, but it's a bit harsh. If someone passes away, someone should have to sign and be checked to see if they meet the initial requirement but if they don't reach out to do so within like a few weeks or something, But I guess the family member can go readopt them at the shelter. Do they allow passing on of the pet to a friend? Because it seems like a lot of neglect cases happen under these circumstances.

[@minni_sung9437]

That's rough, I understand the fact that they could be given to bad owners, but if I had a pet and taught family about them a lot then died that would be a pain. Maybe they should have like a test to be confirmed. So they aren't being taken out of already good homes.

[@savannah8918]

I adopted Winifred the leopard gecko back in October from Snake Discovery and she’s doing amazing!

[@forevermymoon]

We were there and were actually surprised by how cheap the adoption fees were! We paid over $100 to adopt each of our dogs. I definitely think your fees are more than reasonable. Our daughter isn't quite old enough yet, but we have discussed the possibility of a corn snake or milk snake in the future. She would have loved that pink one!
It's a shame that people are leaving one-star reviews over enclosure sizes. Part of being a good pet owner is doing the research before getting a pet. But someone mentioned including cage requirements on their adoption signs, and that might be helpful too for people considering adopting in the future so they know what to plan ahead for.

[@Ophelia9400]

Only 100$ for a dog? My baby was "cheap" at around 1200$ 😆

[@bbycherub2420]

@@Ophelia9400 Damn what breed? You most likely bought from a byb which is different from adopting a dog.

[@LilacMorelli]

I mean a dog should cost more than that though because it’s a dog whereas a small snake or leopard gecko will cost way less

[@parisinthe30sx]

@@Ophelia9400 1200? You didn't rescue then, you probably bought from a breeder. I could adopt multiple dogs for 1200, even purebreds

[@Its_Meg12]

100$ is cheap . Here they are around $200 to $500

[@pwborders]

A small sign on the cage with housing requirements to adopt might help cut down on the 1 star reviews. If someone sees a specific list of requirements they have less grounds to argue if they inquire about adopting. Make the signs printed and laminated and you can easily reuse them as animals come and go.

[@janavanbellingen8531]

I'm worried that would make it easier for the bad people to lie that they have the right enclosure

[@LoxyTheReindeer]

@@janavanbellingen8531 That’s when you require photographic proof and have a sign out front/on the front desk that if you are adopting, you must have proof of proper enclosure

[@Riceball01]

@@LoxyTheReindeer I think that would make it too complicated and might discourage some people from adopting. The simplest thing to do, in my opnion, since there's no way to tell if the photo is even of their eclosure, is to have the sign and then if they say they do have an adqaute enclosure, ask them about it. Somebody who doesn't have an adquate enclsoure is not likelyh to know what the appropriate size for a given animal is so their answer will more quickly tell you the turht than a photo of something that might not even be theirs.

[@littlefurnace]

Yeah those people leaving 1 star reviews would almost certainly lie. Easiest thing to do is just ask them what they have set up in conversation before they have a reason to be defensive about it.

[@BeckyNosferatu]

@@LoxyTheReindeer it looks like they already do require pictures. That's what Emily was saying, they didn't have a picture of their enclosure so she declined them.

[@PaperCityReptiles]

My son adopted Snoop Dog a bearded dragon from adoption island! He’s a great bearded dragon. And we are so happy to have helped Snake Discovery by adopting one of their animals. Thank you for all you do from Snoop Dog (now Spike) and my son all the way in Massachusetts.

[@ArtzyZero]

Sharon's become the sheriff of the zoo, keeping all the other animals in line. :P
I'm really glad you refuse people who don't have the right setup, a lot of people can fall in love with an animal and not realise how much responsibility comes with owning said animal.

[@terrorbats5361]

You may want to consider adding a clause to your adoption form that says the owner, should they be unable to care for the animal down the line, re-surrender the animal to you guys. My family has had rescue dogs for a couple decades now and quite a few of those rescue agencies we've worked with in the past have had similar statements. It's more common for cats and dogs to be adopted and simply surrendered to the local pound than reptiles I imagine, but could still be useful. No one wants to see an animal who had a second chance end up somewhere bad because the owner may feel embarrassed about adopting from and then surrendering an animal to the same place. If it's simply part of the statement it can feel a bit more 'business as normal' than a personal failing.
Hopefully, none would ever actually need to be re-surrendered, but life can happen sometimes.

[@marieparsons9908]

Great idea!

[@ILuvAyeAye]

This is a great idea, my shelter does this.

[@danielanoll4069]

Lolly

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

Two things that I picked up while working with cat rescues that could easily be applicable and helpful for you and your adopters...
1. I would include vet recommendations with the adoption of any animal reptile or amphibian from your facility, especially given that they're exotics, most vets don't work with them. I know most large scale adoption programs for mammals don't do this, but its becoming pretty common practice amongst smaller rescues and is a really great resource for first time pet parents.
2. A lot of rescues I've donated to and adopted from have a clause that if for any reason you can no longer take care of the animal, you surrender it back to the rescue. I don't know how applicable this is in the reptile world... but a lot of mammal rescues pull from kill shelters so they don't want to see animals they rehabilitated ending up back in a kill shelter.
I absolutely LOVE what you guys are doing. It's such a service. I wonder if there's a website somewhere that lists reptile/amphibian rescues because I've honestly never heard of any place around here that will take in a snake or a larger lizard like a tagu. Some of the rescues here will take in bearded dragons, but that's about it. Sadly I've heard stories of lizards and snakes being discovered after renters moved out and they're just euthanized because no one knows what to do.

[@Persephoneia01]

In response to your first point, even if you aren't a first time pet owner it can be a great resource for people new to the area. Recently moved across country and finding a new vet was a bit of a nightmare especially because I have cats not dogs and so many of the recommended vets were clearly much more focused on dogs. I can't imagine if I had reptiles how much more of a pain in the butt it would have been.

[@Si_nengatcha]

#1 is a great idea. Good vet especially for specific/exotic animals can be hard to find

[@houndgirl7365]

Yesss along with a small care pamphlet that people can take home if they are contemplating on some of these animals. For instance people think Savannah monitors are cute, however they grow huge and can be temperamental if not socialized/worked with enough. Not to mention they primarily eat insects which makes them a difficult species to keep from what I have heard. Overall it could have some facts along with some trusted educational resources for general animal care/wellness. The pamphlet could be sold or given out whichever works best, or included with the vet resources.
It's scary how many people just want to go from something like a bearded dragon to a full grown tegu/monitor o.o the behavior is different and much patience is needed... not to mention the size a 5ft lizard is not the same as a small-med sized lizard.

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

@@houndgirl7365 I'm one of those people who, if I wanted to keep a lizard, would straight up skip the little guys. As cute as they are, I will not have bugs in my house. I also have large domestic felines and if I ever had a lizard (or rabbit or dog or bird or any animal besides fish) they'd have to hold their own. Out of all of those, iguanas and rabbits hold the most appeal because they can be litter trained LoL but again, I'll likely never own a lizard. I personally think Ally is awesome and if I could assure a tegu would be as amazing as her, 10/10 would adopt. Cannot assure, so therefore will not.
You know what would be amazing... a list of books available at the local library & websites for further research on reptiles! Vetted resources that are expert approved. As we know, anyone can publish anything on the internet and plenty of libraries have outdated books.

[@QueenofSilence101]

Yes! Providing references for exotic vets in the area would be super helpful, especially for people who are adopting their first-ever reptile. It can be pretty stressful having to search for an exotic vet, so listing a handful of vets would be a lifesaver, for sure.
Maybe a sign that people can take pictures of, or some kind of handout that is given alongside the adoption form.

[@vireoeo4992]

273/275 survivors would be incredible for cats and dogs, depending on the situation, so to have that many reptiles surviving (AND being adopted out) given how little the general public knows about reptile care is downright MIRACULOUS. And I think it really speaks to how well you educate your audience and how much of a difference you make in the reptile community!!

[@nagi3900]

I worked at an exotics ER, and now I'm in a regular care vet clinic and I can confirm you MUST have proper wording for surrender forms. I can't count the number of people who have surrendered and attempted to claim that same animal weeks or even months later.

[@august3833]

I love that Sharon casually went shoppin' while Emily was talking!

[@EddVCR]

What I appreciate about Emily & Ed are they don’t shame the previous owners. I’ve seen some other UA-camrs who take in surrendered reptiles and they shame the previous owners and call them awful names; I think that deters people, even ones who took great care of their pets, from surrendering animals who need new homes.
While I agree that people who decide to keep pets should commit 100% to the responsibility of keeping them healthy and happy, I don’t think public humiliation in cases where the owners need to surrender animals to rescues to find them better homes is the right approach.

[@shelbelee]

Cough cough *emerald scales* cough cough 😂 dude talks trash on everyone and everything

[@xylypotatohead3947]

Yeah also sometimes state regulations change or other circumstances which leads to people needing to relocate their animals and if they do not have friends in the hobby who could take it where should they go? There they know that the animals will be taken care of and will find a nice new home

[@tinkeramma]

I appreciated this back when they shared how Rex came into their lives. I could tell she was loved by her previous owners from the way Emily spoke of them, just not properly cared for.
It also helps for the many cases where animals are rehomed simply because life no longer allows us to provide the care they need. If we had a pet when my second daughter was born, we would have needed to surrender that animal. A new baby would have been compatible with keeping a pet, but not 284 days in NICU and PICU 2 hours from home in the year to come. As things played out, we had to ask family to help care for our older child. If we had a pet at the time, surrender wouldn't have been from anything we could avoid.

[@urgae9125]

@@shelbelee
That is Alex’s brand, which is mostly satire. To my knowledge, he doesn’t openly say someone’s name, or doxxes them, just says what condition they were kept in.

[@dragonslayer_eyre2315]

Agreed! Realizing that you are not capable to take care of an animal and giving it up to a rescue is way better than continue keeping it in sub par conditions or just killing it. I shudder to think of all the animals who have to live out their whole life with an owner who doesn't even get to the point where they realize that the animal should have someone else take care of them. 😔

[@byrn]

Hmm, I'd add "Mouth - clear/redness or sores/discharge (/misaligned?)" to your initial health checklist, right after nostrils. Especially after seeing you treat Gummi the leopard gecko a few months back!

[@llloremod]

at my store with adoptions, we often request [not require] that the setup theyre using comes with the animal so the new adopters can have it [sometimes its not adequate, but some things can be salvaged] and so things can be familiar to the animal, like using their old hide in their new setup and also has helped us deter people from getting rid of an adult animal just so they can fill their tank with a baby again [that situation has come up more times than i can count]

[@dein_tod5006]

If someone wants to adopt an animal without the proper equipment, they are not thinking about the wellbeing of said animal in the first place. If they wanted to adopt a child and have less than ideal housing for said child, they would be declined the adoption as well! imo, it's fantastic that you try to enforce a minimum standard on what the adopting person should have!
Keep up the great work!

[@ericf.9865]

Hey, that already happens.

[@Viva_Cynefin]

fr

[@surtu9221]

If a person can't be bothered to a) read up on the place's policies before going, or b) go home, take a picture of their cage, and come back, then they didn't really want it badly enough, they just wanted a cheap throwaway pet. They're offended you wouldn't give them a 20$ reptile, not realizing it's a 80$ reptile you're graciously allowing them to have if they meet certain conditions.

[@jvseventeen]

And to adopt a child, you literally do (or at least you did when my parents adopted me) have to have pictures of your home, including ones of yourself in said home. As well as proof that you've made it safe for the child (keeping medicine, weapons, etc locked away if they're in the home)

[@laughingalltheway8399]

It sounds like you guys are doing a great job!! Remember: no one has more to say than someone who has been told "no," especially online.

[@86fifty]

It made me really, excessively, happy to see Sharon walking around in this video! :D Something about the roaming animals feels really wholesome, or like, nostalgic or something. Like barnyard cats that just roam around and come to see what you are doing, sometimes, if they feel like it. It really hammers home how much these animals have their own internal life, ya know?
It was really good to see the "behind the scenes" as it were of the paperwork and rehab and suchlike! That's a really good point about the adoption fee, that it's not to designed to exclude low-income owners, it's to prevent "flipping" the animal, which I could definitely see happening now that you mention it, given that reptiles are considered an "exotic pet" in the US.

[@nicoleb695]

Spoiled people will get angry when they don't get their way. You guys ate doing incredible work and I'm so proud to see how you've grown and branched out!

[@Annie_Annie__]

I think all rescues run in to those people that leave 1-star reviews or throw a fit if you say they can’t adopt the animal they want.
I used to work at a cat shelter and one of our rules was that our cats be indoor-only when adopted out. Adopters had to sign a form saying as much.
People that wanted an outdoor-only cat or believed that a cat can’t be healthy unless they’re at least indoor-outdoor always threw a fit.
We were as polite about it as possible and tried to educate about all the reasons it was harmful for everyone to have cats be outside (without a leash or catio etc), but they would still insist that we were being rude, we were wrong, discriminatory, ruining their child’s lives, etc.
They’d demand to talk to the director (“I want to talk to your manager!”) and got even more angry when the director was far more firm with them and would tell them to get out.
Those people would take to social media saying we were scammers that didn’t actually want to help animals because if we did, we’d adopt them out to anyone that was willing to take them no matter what. Or that we should be adopting them out for free if we really cared.
Some people will never understand that those of us in that kind of work think it’s about respecting the animals, not kowtowing to the demands of every human that walks through the door.

[@neolithiumproduction]

Honestly, people like that would be terrible owners anyway.

[@Annie_Annie__]

SnowStorm It’s a cultural thing more than anything. A lot of people were raised with their cats going in and out or only being outside and can’t imagine things being any other way.
They also don’t want to consider that maybe they didn’t do the absolute best for the cats they’ve had in the past, so they refuse to accept that keeping cats indoors *is* what’s best for them and for the local wildlife.
It’s much easier to educate young adults and teens in this subject than people that are middle-age or older in my experience. Not always, of course, but in general.
So it will take lots of education and time for the culture to shift.
I have a next door neighbor that lets her cats out all the time and now I can’t feed the birds in my yard. They don’t come to my feeder anymore because they’re scared of those 3 cats.
I like the cats well enough, but I miss feeding the birds and my own cat misses watching them out the window.
The mindset of “cats need to be outside” is so frustrating.

[@philippak7726]

gee, it's almost like the quality of home matters and the animals you're adopting aren't just stuffed animals that can be tossed around like the "owners" wish.
I'm so glad that every rescue I can think of is all about the value of the life, not the value to the human ego

[@moldyboy354]

"ugh youre ruining my child's life" is the nasties excuse fr
you know what ruined my life as a child? a cat disappearing and another getting run over because my parents insisted they should "live free" in the suburbs. not even a rural area. and then of course they got my sister a hamster and the smallest cage possible

[@hannahgendron7094]

I totally get indoor-only policies, but one time a rescue refused to let me adopt a cat because I initially selected indoor/outdoor on the form (they didn't tell us their policy) and they wouldn't accept that I was actually totally ok with keeping the cat indoors full time. Ended up having to go to a different shelter (that didn't need the extra space nearly as much), said indoor/outdoor to them too and ended up keeping the cat indoors full time anyway cause she just seems happier that way.

[@dirtywhitellama]

Another thing about having an adoption fee....it's well known that people in general value a thing more if they spent more for it, and any fee at all is more than nothing. It improves the probability that the animal will receive proper care and have a good long term home. And if somebody can't afford what look like pretty modest adoption fees, they probably can't afford to care for the reptile either.

[@lauriepenner350]

With dogs and cats, the amount of things you get for the adoption fee (spay/neuter surgery, first vet appointment, immunizations, and any needed surgeries or medical treatments) makes your $100-200 adoption fee look like an absolute bargain

[@AlbinoAxolotl]

I would suggest that the new adopter form has a place next to each numbered requirement for the adopter to initial. If they have to initial next to each line it increases the chance that they actually read each line. It’s a fair bit of text and some might be in too much of a hurry or be too excited to read everything. If they initial each line it also saves you guys from the potential problem of people saying “oh I didn’t see that part of the form!”
Just an idea since I’ve had to do that on important forms and it definitely makes me pay more attention to what I’m actually signing!

[@Jellybeansatdusk]

I mean, if you sign it and don’t read it, it’s still your fault and responsibility to follow it. You can’t say “oh I didn’t read that”. If you put your name on a legally binding contract, every piece of information inside it is legally binding.

[@paresseuxravenhurst85]

The place I get tattooed at has the initiating lines part and it's honestly how I knew to ask if my blood thinners would effect me. It's a great tactic to encourage reading so I'm 100% behind this suggestion.

[@thatoneannoyingtornadosire8755]

Got an even crazier one for ya:
Have each line be something different than the other line.
Say for example, on line 1 write a 1, on line 2 write a 2, on line 3 write a 4. It's probably outlandish, but could be a hilarious way to see if they're actually reading it.
Still, with the first reply to this comment it shouldn't matter too much if everything is legally binding. The law doesn't care if you forgot to read something extremely important, that was *your responsibility* and there are consequences.

[@mvwhit87]

An idea you could do for adoption Island is to maybe have a special "pack" that you can sell to people who adopt but might not have the proper set up already or are planning on buying it there. It could include substrate, lights, decor, a tank (if possible)... all at a small discount. It might not work or be feasible but it was an idea I had 😊

[@whenimonmymoon6822]

Or even an discount if they come back within 6mos for food/enrichment/supplies...

[@annawalker9093]

Hey Ed and Emily! As a previous owner of cornsnakes I noticed the head twitching thing very often! After doing a lot of research I found out its actually the cornsnakes way of telling another hey I'm not food and other communications, kind of like the hognose snakes do. Figured you probably know this but thought it wouldn't hurt to spread what I know😁

[@MS-zo8tp]

My guy does this to me too, usually when I have to move him to clean his enclosure he'll give me what I call 'the old shove and twitch' where he'll push my hand away with his body and twitch his head. I figured it was just some kind of 'don't eat me' signal, lol.

[@idrabohm3678]

My kingsnake likes to slightly twitch when I hold her. Once I twitch back or stay still, she stops. She's too young to breed, but it looks a bit like what hognoses do to recognize each other. Anyone with experience have any ideas?

[@annawalker9093]

@@idrabohm3678 yeah that's basically her telling you please don't eat me🤣

[@eliotdaoust3765]

Thats what i was thinking too. I was thinking maybe her hands smelled like (the adaptly named) Pinky when she grabed the corn snake

[@annawalker9093]

@@eliotdaoust3765 very good point, can also be a food response too

[@soulsociety899]

I really like how they do their Surender and adopt out animals. It looks like a thorough procedure. I wish more rescues did this kind of paperwork ETC. It would help, encourage making rescues for reptiles better IMO. As well, It makes absolute sense that they require certain cage requirements to provide the best care for some of their animals and to future keepers.

[@eliotdaoust3765]

Honestly Ed and Emily are super organised and carefully plan pretty mutch everything from what i've seen so far so i am so not suprised to see that their adoption program is just as well planned and managed!

[@PositiveClicks10]

As a regular cat/dog shelter you guys sound pretty on par for how we do adoptions! Unless documented somewhere else, I’d suggest adding weight at intake to your incoming exam!

[@rugeramerican308]

Today I, first time in my life, held a snake! And surprise I took him home! (Not impulse buy, planned it for a couple years) Hes a slightly grumpy, three year old cornsnake named Mushu.
Just wanted to share it with you all lol 😊❤❤

[@RedsReptiles02]

Happy to see Slim Shady's previous owner was able to take care of him so well! Super surprised he had no stuck shed or missing toes considering how messed up Enigmas typically are, heres hoping his new home treats him just as well if not better and that his condition from having that horrible morph never worsens

[@saphira_]

If you don't already, handing out care guides with the adopted animals might be a good idea. Something that covers the basics for each species as well as any special instructions for the individual and any treatments to common ailments they may encounter.

[@karmo6055]

I think they already do :)

[@saphira_]

@@Kasei7th I remembered those too I just wasn't sure if those were still a thing or only applied to new buys for some reason. It's way too rare in my part of the world to see pet stores send off care guides with any animal let alone uncommon reptiles.

[@saga2964]

GOOD FOR YOU FOR KEEPING YOUR INTEGRITY and not being a slave to the almighty dollar or retaliatory feedback!
Those that are serious about adopting well-vetted animals will see this and trust you for it! (Not to mention you're simply winning even more respect from your audience who cares about the animals' well-being!)

[@maryhixson9932]

I love that you guys put the animals first that’s how it should be!

[@Kushfarmer1313]

I’ve been rescuing reptiles for 30+ years, and may I just congratulate you both on your approach and reverence for animal life!

[@--asher--]

Awesome! I'm always paranoid that people aren't treating their animals right, and have no safe way to give them to others that will care for them correctly. You guys are awesome! ♥️
Edit- I have an idea what if you have a short video every week- or when you can- of all of the adoption island animals! It was unusually calming and I learned quite a bit and it would be a good promo for the animal. Just an idea!

[@amberemken4855]

That is a really good idea.

[@djsmith199]

Great idea!!

[@OhSoUnicornly]

I would love to see this! They could even do it as a "short" and share it more places like tiktok etc.

[@runa8354]

It was calming and adorable yes!!
But as far as i know they dont ship out adopted animals so you'd have to get it in store. So i dont think it would make a huge difference in their adoption rates? Cause most of their viewers arent from the area.
But if they ever expand their adoption business to accept surrenderd animals per shipping and also adopt them out with the option of shipping, that would be awesome to see :3

[@--asher--]

@@OhSoUnicornly yes! I also feel like it is nice to stay on one platform, and UA-cam has shorts which is pretty much the exact same thing.

[@LaineyBug2020]

It's good to see how mobile Sharon is! So glad she's found such a good home!

[@velkynkarma6804]

Those one-star reviews are insane! Honestly I love that you take the time to make sure people have everything they need for the animal in advance, it should be done more often. When I bought my ball python I had my enclosure ready to go and still walked through it with the vendor to make sure everything sounded good to them, and they actually thanked me for doing my research and prepping in advance. It just put into perspective how often people try to walk off with living creatures without doing a shred of research, expecting it to be okay.

[@whyaddnamehere]

Just looked at your reviews. Anyone who leaves a negative rating because you wouldn't let them adopt an animal sends me red flags about that person. You just want the animal to be in the correct sized cage and have the minimum items needed to take care of the animal. That's asking if they have the basics. Anyone upset about that doesn't need a pet!!!

[@NoodleHausColubrids]

Adoption island is a wonderful thing, I've got two pairs of garter snakes I adopted from you that are growing and thriving, they're some of my favourite animals in my collection to watch (still too small to handle). I've also got a couple of corn snakes that I rescued personally, one that was neglected and then abandoned, another that was a child's pet that had escaped. Too many people are willing to pay the money for an animal but have no idea nor the proper tools to care for and keep them safely, and it ends badly. Those who leave negative reviews over being denied an adoption obviously didn't care about the animal itself, only what it could offer them.

[@rainbow_starz5170]

What is there name?

[@MANGLORIOUS]

@@rainbow_starz5170 yeah I’d love to hear the snakes names

[@zachnarlionsmane7171]

We also got a couple baby garters from them! I believe the colony name was "the horde" at the time back in sept. one with a checkered pattern and the other with a more standard plains style named zig and zag. luckily the genders still check out to be the same as they have definitely grown a bit.

[@NoodleHausColubrids]

@@rainbow_starz5170 I have been waiting to name them until they've gotten bigger and their genders have been confirmed.

[@krysaboyce5353]

That one star review was funny to me because reading it would make me want to adopt from you guys more because it shows how much you care

[@raven_the_witch875]

I work for an animal rescue and it’s heartbreaking to see the condition some of them come to us in. Thank you for all you do!

[@Alex_and_Yoshi]

I just rescued a bearded dragon (9 months old) from a family that got him from a pet store and downright abused him (dehydrated, fear aggressive, malnourished, compacted, and wounded) it’s been about 2 weeks and he looks much better now and has the fear aggression still but we hope he’ll calm down with proper care and handling. We named him Rogelio and I am the main care source for him since I’m the most experienced with lizards. Thank you guys for being an inspiration for my love of animals and giving me the chance to be able to give this little guy a better life.

[@froggygal_]

Great name! Is he perhaps named after the character in She-ra?

[@SaffronicSaffron]

Best of luck for the little guy.

[@Alex_and_Yoshi]

@@froggygal_ yup! The lizard from she-ra

[@thatoneannoyingtornadosire8755]

I know this is a one year old comment but i'd love to hear an update on how he's doing! Very much appreciate that you took him out of a nasty situation.

[@Kale_20]

Hi guys, I love your channel and have become obsessed with anything reptile (mostly snakes) because of this channel. I think it would be really cool if you guys did a “day in the life” video to see what your busy busy days look like. From feeding animals to talking to customers, I think we would all enjoy it 😊 ❤️ love you guys

[@ImOffensivlyFunny]

This is why I got a snake

[@LoxyTheReindeer]

Yes, this, absolutely. A “Day in the life of Emily/Ed” would be amazing.

[@carwashnews]

I just want to say, today has been extremely emotional for me after surrendering my Boa, Corn, and Ball Python.. I have had these animals for half my life starting from middle school, and I was no longer able to give them the love that I used to when I was young. I can’t tell you how grateful I am that you have created this program! I feel so thankful knowing you guys are able to re-home them to good homes that can love them just as much as I did.. So much love for you guys and what you do!

[@nds711D]

If people are not willing to do the research and give an animal, at the VERY least, a satisfactory enclosure, then they do not deserve the animal. Y'all are, AS ALWAYS, doing the right thing.

[@fccty1]

It’s amazing how knowledgeable you guys are about all these animals and running a zoo with an adoption centre! It’s really admirable that you have set boundaries in place with the people looking to adopt. Instead of doing a quick sale.

[@claytonryals9583]

I love the zoo in the pet store ideal were people can see how big a grown animal is at what enclosure they require at adulthood

[@Vickie-Bligh]

Thank you for your dedication to the health & well-being of all the animals you come in contact with. Sod the people who want a 'cheap' pet and don't want to be responsible owners, parents, guardians. Adoption fees not only help pay for what the animal consumed while in your care but help pay it forward to the next one. We just adopted 3 kittens (siblings) from our local shelter and I was surprised that they reduced the fees as much as they did for adopting 3. Keep up the great work, Ed & Emily.

[@littlemisswolfee1095]

watching this video I have tears in my eyes. The overwhelming amount of care and love you gives these animals is just amazing and I really cant thank you guys enough for all that you do! You are real heros and im so glad these reptiles have you in their corner!

[@lilyetal]

That stubby tail beardie reminds me of my first rescue, Eddie. She was a very old beardie who literally had half a tail. It was like a club, pretty funny tbh. She loved baths. She died of old age last year, I miss her every day, but she was an angel.

[@badgyalchels333]

I’m about to rescue a bearded dragon this weekend, making him my third reptile! I love you guys you’re such an inspiration!!

[@MuffinBlubb]

I love that you treat the animals with all respect and dont give them out to every person walking by.

[@namelessnavnls8060]

That little Shady fella has so much personality. His little head tilt is adorable, I'm glad he doesn't seem to have too much trouble from the neurological issues he has. His little back arch when he was touched seemed to me like he liked being petted. Adorable.

[@TeaLeaf9353]

i love how emily is always holding an animal in her hand during the intro and the talking parts, it's so cute! ♥
love you snake discovery

[@zwierzchnik]

Emily cannot speak without an animal in-hand😳...yep, she clams right up and gets verklempt.😉
🦎 Gotta love her, though❣️

[@matthijsvanneijhof847]

Hey guys! Love the video.
My first pet was an adopteren ball python through a rescue (in the Netherlands) and what they do is that after a year of owning the animal you have another talk with them and you gotta bring the animal so they can inspect if the animal is healthy and well taken care of. I really like that they ask for that, because it protects the animal from what you said like flipping for easy money

[@Persephoneia01]

While an amazing idea, that would never fly in the US.

[@matthijsvanneijhof847]

@@Persephoneia01 very True. My country is a lot smaller than i think all of your states.

[@Persephoneia01]

@@matthijsvanneijhof847 Most. Pretty sure Rhode Island is maybe smaller than the Netherlands.

[@khills]

@@Persephoneia01 naaa, I’m in MA and the town shelter I adopted my last cat from did checkups at 1 week, 4 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year. Email, but we were required to provide photos at 1, 6 and 12 months (and we happily included photos at every update). I’m sure part of this was just making sure we still HAD her, but also just to make sure she was doing okay, help with early intervention of health needs, etc.

[@zarasamuels9377]

I do think that it would be a lovely thing for the staff at the shelter getting to see how awesome an adopted animal is doing a year into a good home. Maybe a voluntary 1 year photo you could submit online. Be cute and also might put people not intending to keep the animals off if they think there's any chance of the shelter checking up on them

[@Sonora0Redwing]

I completely understand your adoption process when the concern of a good home for the animals come first. Our local PetCo and PetSmart teams up with the local shelters and it can be hard to adopt out a cat or dog. They do a meet and greet, asking all the questions similar to what you guys do. They have been burned in the past where some animals were adopted out to a bad home situation where they were returned back to the shelter, or found abandoned in the streets. It can discourage customers doing the way you guys do, but making sure that animal goes to a good home is worth it. Keep up the amazing work!

[@carmamuxlot3092]

I work at a pet store.... people get crazy mad when you refuse a sale because they don't have the right size enclosure...glad it's not just us :)

[@kirblevitation]

I think occasional videos detailing the rehab processes for the more sick animals would be really great! I'd love to watch them get better, and it could be a great educational tool too!

[@DZrache]

That's the thing though, with rehab videos what the audience wants most is to see very sick animals recover, even though sicker animals are more likely to die. Then you've put the work into making a bunch of unusable footage because you don't want to upload something depressing.

[@kirblevitation]

@@DZrache or you include it to show the unfortunate reality that comes with rescuing potentially sick animals, make it educational in the sense that you can recognise when it is more ethical to euthanase than keep trying. Also if you include it in a video with other animals that make it, it would take away some of the impact, a lot of tv shows get away with showing animals dying when there are several in one epsilon that also make it (vet shows)

[@DZrache]

@@kirblevitation True, there are different ways to approach it and make it more palatable, and there's definitely educational value in it, but maybe that educational value is a little above the more accessible, basic herp education SD is offering, and them having to stay Family Friendly (and Emily's already demonstrated she's not shy to speak out when a parent is being a Karen lol.) I would like to see it myself though

[@kirblevitation]

@@DZrache bondi vet handles it nicely :)

[@owlmage2744]

It's so insane that you've rehired 250 Reptiles&Amphibians!! Thank you so much for giving so much kindness to all of those animals! Also very good that you do decline adoptions if needed, Just shows how important those animals are to you guys!

[@Lady_Lavandula]

I love Slim Shady, 10/10 adorable lad! That adoption form was also 👌 So glad you do such good work for both the reptiles and the community 💚

[@ashleyhope58]

Came here to see if anyone else saw the “signature” on the front of the sample adoption form! 😂

[@Michellemutts7848]

Good for you for declining them, it shows your responsible and you care. Any decent animal loving person would totally understand.

[@emogoth789b7]

Hey I love your chanel

[@voidvoidgang4614]

cool

[@paulcuffarofan3246]

Me too

[@thechickenwizard8172]

The charlie the unicorn reference completely caught me off guard 🤣 thanks for keeping the comedy crispy guys!

[@julian.amma97]

IKR? My partner and I couldn't stop laughing; we quote it all the time, usually, "you gotta be sneaky Charlie" lol

[@Red_VelvetRevolver]

So, I volunteer with a local feline rescue, Cattail, where I adopted both of my cats from. We have a similar adoption policy; in that if someone just isn’t willing to provide the right environment or wants to “declaw”(which we have a struck policy against), or we just don’t get a good vibe from them; we won’t adopt a cat out to them. People have been upset about it, but cats aren’t just a toy you can play with and then toss when you get bored. I knew, to a degree, that you guys wouldn’t just adopt out animals to just anyone; but it’s good to know that you take a similar approach to us

[@evlchick]

I would rather Snake Discovery asks me/everyone that wants to adopt all the questions and even asked to see the setup, it's refresing to see someone looking out for the animals. Most pet Stores and Expos are after the money you will give them, they don't care about the care and love you will give your new family member.
Snake Discovery has RESPECT for the animals.

[@SaffronicSaffron]

You can't just buy them and expect them to be a thing on your shelf. you must basically become a parent, you're adopting a child. granted they're not human, but still a child.
And that insert (Google Translate not working properly) lizard name.. is so darn cute, oh my goodness.

[@contra1124]

Slim Shady's mockup surrender form is funny "Reason for surrender: going on tour to become rap god; Name: Marshall Mathers; Signature: Eminem" 😂

[@crysmarrs9207]

Thank you for caring about where they go. If people can't provide the proper home then they shouldn't have the animal. And those who then go and leave crappy reviews? Most certainly not the kind of people you want getting the animals.

[@marieparsons9908]

That type of one star review is actually a FIVE star review!

[@gigidodson]

Such good people doing good work.
Stop leaving bad reviews because youre not willing to do the bare minimum to give your animal a good home.

[@amberemken4855]

I wish all pet owners understood how to take care of their pets and make responsible decisions. As well as you guys do thanks for doing what you do.

[@shortpockets9408]

I would be proud to receive that review. Completely stated "This woman did her job, how could she!"
Give that employee a cookie or chocolate if it was Emily! Great job!

[@shiny3934]

I remember you guys filming educational videos from your house many years ago, and now you not only have an amazing educational zoo but also a rescue program !! Insanely proud of you for doing such great work in raising awareness and promoting great reptile husbandry. And educating people who do and don't even have reptiles or amphibs 😆

[@amynon2225]

Thank you for rescuing so many cute Babies 😊

[@ForestOfEmeralds]

I remember the first video you guys posted on the first animals you ever had surrendered to you.. and to think you've given 250 animals amazing homes since! That's absolutely wild, you guys are such an inspiration

[@furryfurry8477]

I recently got a bearded dragon, and while I never want to have to surrender him, it’s comforting to know that you guys are there if there’s an emergency. You people save so many animals, thank you for doing what you do!

[@Choujifangirl]

275 animals surrendered to you and only two died you gotta give yourself credit cause that’s a great record that really does show that you care for these animals and I have to applaud that

[@julia815645219]

The Minnesota/Wisconsin area is so lucky to have you guys be such amazing avocates for pet reptiles and amphibians

[@samanthagray7136]

I think plugging in adoption island into your videos is a wonderful idea. I love seeing the different reptiles up for adoption and learning their stories.

[@mohamstaz3618]

Human entitlement is 100% the reason I can't get into rescue work. Some people make me so angry I could spit. You guys are awesome for being able to handle that.

[@Rileys-Reptiles]

I feel your pain about customers getting mad when being rejected trying to buy an animal for too small of an enclosure. Happens far too often. And the online complaint thing is hilarious. We got a 1 star review recently because the person felt the need to complain and call me rude because we have a sign saying "No public restroom" and he asked me to use our restroom. He was big mad. Too funny!

[@masoncjohnson5229]

Loved coming to the zoo the other day!!! Loved everything and excited to see what’s happening out front!!!!

[@user-jk8qj9zj9d]

Omg hi! I love you guys! One day I'd love to come to the US to visit Snake Discovery and see adoption island!

[@scootergirl3662]

I really respect that for as nice as they try to be all the time, they are able to put their foot down with people and take the 1-star reviews. Of course, those entitled ******* are going to think the pet stores of more respectful because they will do whatever will get them paid.

[@Olivia-mh8wq]

Mad respect to you guys for making sure new owners have proper enclosures before you adopt out your animals.

[@ProfJCsCritters]

Y'all are living the dream! I wish I were closer to your location. The facility looks great.

[@Vesterbop]

I’m so glad all these reptiles can get adopted and get to good homes❤️❤️❤️

[@gwendolynrobinson3900]

I'm happy to hear they're understanding of people who come in and admit to being unable to care for their pet anymore. I know there's a lot of shame around it to many and there's some stigma even when there are perfectly innocent reasons for giving them up. It's always comforting to see those who are compassionate and understanding of others :)

[@grutarg2938]

If a person can’t give an animal the proper care, because life happens, then it’s better to surrender the animal sooner rather than later.

[@gwendolynrobinson3900]

@@grutarg2938 yes

[@Sophie-dd5xr]

As an adoptee myself, it makes me so unbelievably happy to see the measures you take to make sure your rescues are going to not just a home, but a wonderful home. It’s unfortunately true that people will abuse the systems in the pet and human adoption worlds. And there are the people who adopt with a good heart and good intention, but fail to meet requirements for the health and well being of the pet/child, physically and/or mentally. Soooo many well intended, but not good homes us adoptees get shuffled into without a voice. The care, respect, and love for your animals is clear and extremely appreciated! You are strong, unwavering voice we lack. 💕 Love to Emily, Ed, and the rest of the Snake Discovery team! 💕🤗💕

[@bernadetteboyd8146]

The Veiled Chameleon on adoption island is gravid but she won't lay in that enclosure! Stress can cause them to become egg bound, and to avoid stress they NEED to have an arboreal enclosure. They also have high uvb requirements and very specific vitamin supplements. They get MBD very easily without proper uvb, and this is especially true for females, due to egg laying.
I wish I lived in the US and could come adopt her. She needs out of that enclosure, and her eye should be examined by a knowledgeable vet, as there appears to be an abscess

[@SnakeDiscovery]

Don't worry, she has been moved into the back where it's much calmer! We just didn't want her near our personal collection while she was still so new. Now that she's had time to settle in, and a radiograph proving she is in fact gravid, she is in a 36x18x18 enclosure with a much larger lay box 😊

[@bernadetteboyd8146]

@@SnakeDiscovery I'm very glad to hear she's got some space and privacy now :) thank you for that and the quick response!

[@natashametcalfe3116]

We got a rescue dog (named Toffee) last year and we thought that she had an ear infection as she very often held her head in a tilt. Only to find out that there was a type of bacteria eating away at one of the vertebrae in her neck. We tried some meds and got rid of the bacteria, though she now has a slit permanent tilt to her head

[@hebebebe139]

My dog did the same and it turned out there's was damn grass seed sprouting in his ear tickling him 'cause he was always out back rolling around in tall grass 😅

[@NinjaDilly]

i love snake discovery and been watching for 20 years now

[@NinjaDilly]

love you guys

[@colettehenderson6108]

The probing about their environment is awkward but so important! Our family had a tortoise for almost 20 years and it wasn't until I started watching your channel that I realized how poor of care it received its whole life! I wish someone would have asked more questions before just selling it to my parents!

[@eyebrowsnatcher]

i had the same situation with my first bunny, she had a way to small cage and was poorly cared by me for a year or 2. But then we learned to take proper care and she lived like a princess with a massive cage. Sadly she passed, but know i have 2 rescues that have a beautiful live. I wished i could take proper care for my first bunny at the start, but i learned a lot from her.

[@julianfelix9372]

I’m from Missouri and I really wanna plan a trip just to see this facility it looks and sounds like a wonderland! If y’all have eco earth too I’m definitely coming haha

[@aliciagordon8221]

I feel the same way! I’m from Kentucky and I want to plan a road trip just to visit Snake Discovery!!