My socialization protocol... sounds fancy. LOL

Basically, what I do is try as much as possible to just sit with new iggies. This becomes more possible once they are in enclosures big enough to sit in. Sebastian is currently in the master bathroom and I take my Kindle and go sit in there and read, usually out loud. Before that, I sat next to the enclosure he was in just the same way. As soon as I am able to get a leash on an ig, I start taking them outside so that they start associating the leash with something good. You can also offer them a special treat if they let you put the leash on without alligator rolling. Once they will wear a leash outside we start taking them places. The various pet stores and garden centers allow pets and we've also been successful bringing them to Home Depot and I've heard Half Price Books has a pet friendly policy. People start coming up to them and they just seem to learn to accept it. Kismet doesn't just tolerate it but actually seems to enjoy the attention. I know it doesn't stress her because (1) she knows the word car and when out front will run straight for the van and (2) she'll come home from an outing and go straight for her food bowl. She's even been known to eat while out. Recently at the organic garden center, Sebastian had a nice time munching on the hibiscus flowers while they were still on the plants, so I don't think he could have felt too badly stressed. Tazumal has only been on one short outing since the leash is too big for him and I'm afraid of losing him!

As soon as I feel the igs are ready they go to schools and we give talks about iguanas. It wasn't at all long before Sebastian felt comfortable being petted by the kids. My two older igs don't seem to be bothered at all about squealing kids or other loud noises or by people coming in and out. I dont' know if is anything I've done, or if I just got lucky.

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