KANSAS STATE COLLEGIAN (Salina) 22 August 03 Look Who Crawled In - Exotic pet store owners urge consumers to educate selves on caring for unique animals (Angela Rickard)

New species are crawling around Aggieville, looking for someone to take them home.

Scaly Dave's Herp Shack, a new addition to Aggieville at 1111 Moro St., specializes in reptiles and exotic animals.

Dave Karnowski, owner, said he and his wife opened the shop because they wanted to do something different.

"Most people don't get to see these types of animals unless they're on the east coast or west coast," he said.

Cheryl Sieben, director of the Aggieville Business Association, said she agrees that the pet store adds diversity to the shopping district.

"We've never had a pet store here in Aggieville," she said. "The fact that the store specializes in exotic pets will draw a lot of people - especially college students."

Allison Karnowski, co-owner, said the store's uniqueness has already attracted many curious window shoppers since the store's opening in July.

"We've had good traffic," she said. "The store provides a relaxed atmosphere and natural look. People come in to see and learn about new things."

The collection at the full-line pet store ranges from the traditional puppy and kitten to the non-traditional herps.

Vince Lombardi, employee at Scaly Dave's, said herps refers mainly to reptiles and amphibians. He said the term can sometimes include other exotic pets.

"Some people like furry pets while others enjoy reptiles," Lombardi, senior in geography, said. "You have to find a pet that matches your personality."

Lombardi said he enjoys helping customers with their pets and making sure they buy pets responsibly.

The Karnowski's said they also encourage responsible pet buying.

"We really push education before someone considers purchasing an animal," Dave said.

The store has an education corner with books on different species.

"A lot of times, instead of sending customers home with an animal, we send them home with a book," Dave said.

He said some of the animals are not suitable as pets.

"We have some animals that are for educational purposes only," he said. "It would be our responsibility if we sent someone home with a python without the understanding that it could someday eat a 60 pound child."

K-State exotic animal veterinarian James Carpenter said he also believes that some animals do not make good pets.

"Large lizards, snakes, and venomous species can pose serious dangers to owners who underestimate their growth and temperaments," he said.

Carpenter said he cautions people who want to buy an exotic animal because they're cool.

"I want to encourage potential owners to make a serious commitment to nutrition, husbandry, and veterinary care. People know a great deal about caring for dogs and cats," he said. "but they don't know about the special nutrition, housing, and lighting exotic pets need."
Exotic pet store owners urge consumers to educate selves

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• KS Press: Exotic pet store owners urge consumers to educate selves - W von Papineäu, Mon Aug 25 19:13:16 2003