A Sheffield vet is reminding animal lovers that puppies and kittens are not the only pets that are put at risk when given as Christmas presets…reptiles are vulnerable too!

Jonathan Dow, of Park Vets in Millhouses, said there had been a surge in the popularity of pets like stick insects, African snails and bearded dragons in recent years.

But he fears that – just like the more traditional cats and dogs – many are forgotten about after people receive them as presents for Christmas.

He has made a call for people to make sure they are buying the right gift this year.

Jonathan, a certified exotic animal practitioner, said: “There are many important things to consider when giving a pet as a present. Do they really want a pet, can they afford to look after it properly, is it an impulse or well researched present and is the pet likely to be captive bred rather than from the wild?

“Pet insurance should be taken out to cover any medical or surgical emergencies, plus an exotic pet should always be registered with a qualified vet.

“And if you are buying this pet as a gift for a family member or friend make sure they really want to care for it even in up to fifty years time – as many species can live for a long time.”

Specialist clinics for new exotic pet owners, as well as fact sheets on various species, have been put together by Jonathan.