A HARTPURY academic is carrying out research into people who keep reptiles as pets which could help reduce the number of animals that need to be re-homed.

Helen Tedds, a Lecturer in Animal Welfare at Hartpury University, says nearly half of all cases of reptiles being given away or sold stem back to a lack of education about their needs.

Helen, who is currently researching the pet reptile trade as part of her PhD, has been invited to join a discussion at the House of Lords next week about a new pet education initiative from the Companion Animal Sector Council.

Helen said: “Reptiles, like so many other pets, can be extremely rewarding for their owners. However, they often have specialist needs when it comes to things like housing, nutrition, and enrichment.

“Rehoming reptiles can be unsettling for the animal and is often upsetting for the owner, who with the right guidance and support, may feel more confident and empowered to keep the pet and provide a good home.

“Given the findings from my research, I believe that education is a key aspect of protecting wider reptile welfare and I’m very much in support of this new initiative from the Companion Animal Sector Council”.