Things to Consider When Adopting and Rescuing Iguanas

Guest article by Lisa

Iguanas are one of those animals that you see in almost every pet store. They are even being given away as prizes at fairs and festivals for people that win carnival games. Unfortunately, the popularity and ease with which a person can get an Iguana leads to a large number of them being placed for adoption and in need of rescue.

This handsome fellow is available for adoption at this time from Triangle Iguana Rescue & Foundation.

Iguanas do make very good pets, for the right person and family. However, many people fail to realize that these beautiful animals require very specific care in order to survive, and that they get very, very large. As the Iguana starts to grow…and grow, and grow, and grow, people quickly realize that this is not the cute little lizard they thought they could easily keep in their house, and they are soon looking to find it a new home.

What You Need to Know About Iguanas

Iguanas have a very specific diet. They require fresh fruits and vegetables every day in order to maintain proper health. They also have very specific mineral requirements that must be tended to so that their bones to stay healthy and grow properly. You will have to be able to dedicate a good portion of time each day to caring for and feeding your Iguana to ensure that they stay healthy.

It is often shocking to realize that there are so many people who adopt or purchase an Iguana without realizing how large they can get. People have the misconception that an Iguana will only get as big as the cage that it is in. This is completely untrue, and it is cruel and abusive to leave an Iguana in a small cage in an attempt to keep it small. Iguanas can get to be up to six feet long and require a cage that will fit their body. They also need climbing space, as they are arboreal, or tree dwelling, animals. If you cannot provide an extremely large enclosure with all of the accessories that an Iguana will need you do not need to adopt an Iguana, no matter how badly you or your child are wanting one.

Behavioral Issues and Concerns with Iguanas

If you are looking to adopt an Iguana that has been rescued, be prepared to have to deal with a number of behavioral issues that it may have developed. Iguanas are highly intelligent creatures. If they have been neglected and abused, it can certainly present itself in their behavior. They have a very strong personality, and if they are not happy you are going to know about it, usually by way of a stinging whip of their tail.

For the right person, these issues can eventually be overcome. But it is going to take time, dedication and patience to teach your adopted Iguana that you mean it no harm, and that it is safe with you. Expect to spend at least a few hours a day acclimating your Iguana to it’s new home, and getting it used to life as a pet.

“I am the lizard king. I can do anything.” ~ Jim Morrison.