Which Amphibian Is Best For You To Adopt?

10 Oct 2007By Kimberly

Amphibians are animals that live in both water and on land. They are ectothermic, previously termed as cold-blooded, meaning that their internal body temperature is regulated by their external environment.

Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Amphibia

Photo above: Green Tree Frog

Some of the orders and subclasses of Amphibians are:
Order Temnospondyli – extinct
Subclass Lepospondyli – extinct
Subclass Lissamphibia
Order Anura
Order Caudata
Order Gymnophiona

* Neat Fact: Most interesting is the fact that amphibians breath through their skin!

***

Tips on Buying an Amphibian for a Pet
By Katie Gee

So you are in the market for a pet frog, toad or salamander and you are wondering what your first step should be? We can spell it out in one word: RESEARCH. Because there are literally thousands of amphibians to chose from, before purchasing one you need decide which one is going to work best for you.

Photo right: Spotted Salamander

If you are thinking that an amphibian would make a great pet because they are low maintenance, think again. Some require specific temperatures, amounts of light, water among other things. So, you need to be sure that you are going to be able to give your new pet everything they need to be healthy and happy. Many require fresh food daily, so you can’t just throw in some insects for them to eat and go away for a three day weekend. You need to make sure that someone will be able to look after their dietary needs while you are gone.

We suggest that you begin to look at pictures of toads, frogs and amphibians on line, pick the ones that catch your interest and then begin doing research on them. This way you are getting one that is pleasing to your eye and fits into your lifestyle.

After you have chosen the amphibian you like, begin to research stores where they are sold. First, you want to make sure that it is legal to have the amphibian you want. It is actually against the law to own or sell certain types of amphibians. You want to make sure that you are buying from a reputable seller.

While we don’t discourage from buying online as there are many reputable sellers online, we do encourage you to check out local pet stores as well. If you have any problems, need additional information or supplies for you new pet, they are close by and you can get supplies when you need them instead of having to wait for delivery.

Photo left: Adult Painted Toad

We also suggest you your plans for your new pet by a local Veterinarian. The Vet might have some helpful suggestions as to where to you can buy your pet and what will keep him healthy. Some cities have Veterinarian offices that specialize in amphibians and reptiles, which would be a great resource for you.

Now that you have these tips to get you started, it’s time for you to start researching your pet amphibian possibilities. With so many to choose from, you should have to problem finding the right pet for you. What are you waiting for? Start your research today.

For more information on Anphibians visit our site at http://www.myanphibians.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Katie_Gee
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-on-Buying-an-Amphibian-for-a-Pet&id=150603

***

I hope you enjoyed today’s installment of Exotic Animal Lover! Until next time…

Live Exotically,

Kimberly Edwards

P.S. Looking for a good suggestion as to what Amphibious or Reptilian pet is for you? Well, here is a fantastic book outlining just that! Only $7.57…Check it out here: