HERALD NEWS (Joliet, Illinois) 19 February 08 Red-hot reptiles - Amphibians also trendy area pets
The Joliet/ Plainfield area is overrun by the creepy crawlies -- and residents don't seem to mind.
Reptiles and amphibians of all sizes, shapes and colors, from dart frogs to bearded dragons, are becoming increasingly popular pets, and there are two main outposts in Joliet and Plainfield ready to supply the increasing demand.
Annetta and Wayne Halzle, owners of Three Rivers Reptiles in Joliet, and a Colombian boa constrictor.
The most recent addition to the growing reptile-retail demand is Suburban Reptile on Illinois 59 in Plainfield, which opened in November.
"Basically, I've raised reptiles since I was a kid. I kind of started doing other things once I graduated college, but I was looking for a new type of career," said Jason Subick, who is the store's owner with his wife, Sue. "I was breeding some new reptiles and amphibians and there wasn't (many reptile/amphibian supply stores) around here."
Suburban Reptile is fully stocked for all reptile needs, from beginners to breeders and sellers. "We carry a full line of everything, from lizards to turtles and supplies," said Subick. "I get a lot (of animals sold at the store) from local breeders."
As a result of the present reptile and amphibian popularity, Suburban Reptile is quickly building a solid customer base. "Business has been increasing every week," said Subick. "The most popular reptile is the bearded dragon, and we have everything you need to set up."
Though reptiles may seem exotic and trendy, they aren't the right pet for everyone. "It depends on the person," said Subick. "I just try to find out what they are looking for, what their level of comfort is."
The more established of the two stores is Three Rivers Reptiles on Republic Avenue in Joliet. "We have always been interested in reptiles," said Annetta Halzle, co-owner with husband Wayne. "We've been breeding since 1994 and we've always wanted to open our own store. We've been open since May 2001 and we still do a lot of our own breeding."
Similar to the Subick's at Suburban Reptile, the Halzle's provide the animals, supplies and information for all levels of reptilian interest. "We help educate people," said Halzle. "There is a lot of different information out there and it's hard to know what works the best. Just like fish, there are beginner reptiles and more experienced reptiles."
Though a snake or dragon may seem low maintenance, just like a puppy they deserve attention and a lot of consideration regarding their care.
"We go over things as to what their lifestyle would be like. You want to make sure it's compatible with your lifestyle," said Halzle. "Once you learn the routine it's not challenging, its just a different kind of pet."
Just like the sizes of reptiles and amphibians, prices can vary. For increasingly popular bearded dragons, the price can range from $55-$65. Corn snakes -- recommended for beginning snake owners -- range from $35-$50.
For more information, contact Suburban Reptile, (815) 782-7724, and Three Rivers Reptile, (815) 725-3325.
Red-hot reptiles - Amphibians also trendy area pets