Reptile Hotel links up with specialist vet

Jul 15 2009 by Karen Dent, The Journal

AN EXOTIC pet shop has linked up with a specialist vet in a move that both businesses expect to be mutually beneficial.

The Reptile Hotel in Marsden near South Shields has been open for almost a year and has now entered a collaboration with vet Elena Pedretti, who specialises in reptiles.

Ms Pedretti, who works for regional practice Blythman and Partners, carries out regular inspections and health checks on the animals at the shop.

She said: “Owning exotic pet is becoming more and more popular and can be very rewarding but potential owners need to bear in mind that unusual animals require particular care.

“The Reptile Hotel will now be able to point new owners in Blythman’s direction where they will be offered specialist knowledge and advice regarding their pet, as well as certain offers.”

Carol Thornton, who set up The Reptile Hotel last August, said: “I used to use a local vet and they put us in touch with Elena from Gateshead and it started from there. The vet does an inspection of the animals on a regular basis. We want to improve things for the community.”

Mrs Thornton runs the shop with her son Craig, who is now 16. It was initially his idea to open the shop because he had difficulties sourcing raw food for his own reptiles.

The shop’s current best-seller is the bearded dragon, a non-aggressive lizard that can grow to two feet long.