Hundreds of animal lovers packed the Madonna Expo Center this weekend, surrounding the thousands of animals on display at the 2023 Reptile Expo, sponsored by Zoo Med. This exposition showcases various animals, from snakes, chameleons, leopard geckos, anoles and even sloths. This two day event brought thousands of animal lovers to one place.
Behind the scenes of the exhibit are various reptile breeders and local shops that provide resources for purchasers of new pets. Zoo Med, the primary sponsor for the event and pet supply company, had many of its products for sale at the event to provide the correct resources for people to take care of their new reptiles.
“We like to make sure the products work for the pet from the beginning of their life all the way to the end,” Senior Director at Zoo Med Labs David Dieter said.
The Madonna Reptile Expo has run for four years, and is one of the 55 reptile exhibits that Zoo Med sponsors each year.
“The coolest thing is to see the families,” Dieter said. “The kids get exposed to these reptiles that are such a cool pet.”
Reptile breeders that showcase their breeds at the event have extensive experience. Some focus on only one species, while others breed a variety of reptiles.
“The black headed pythons are my favorite. That’s my specialty,” reptile breeder Keneth Lefler said.
While Lefler specializes in black headed pythons, his company, The Reptile Shop, sells an array of Boas, Pythons, Condas and various other snakes. All participants in the expo were able to sell hundreds of pets.
Many people purchased pets at the expo, however learning the proper care for these animals can be extensive and complicated. The specialists from both Zoo Med and other breeders present at the event ensure that the new owners are properly educated on the required care.
“We like to educate them and make sure that they have a positive experience and see families over and over again,” Dieter said.
The event did not just showcase thousands of reptiles. Various experts presented animals such as sloths, foxes, crocodiles and skinks.
The reptile breeders present at this event take pride in the species and animals that they breed, and the breeding process for these magnificent creatures is extensive, but not impossible. Reptile breeder, Lefler, beamed with pride as he described the process of breeding reptiles as “incredible”.
This event is nothing short of educational, fun, and thrilling for many attendees. The amount of hard work it takes to put on such an event is extensive but the breeders, experts, and companies that put on this event demonstrate the clear pride and enjoyment they take in their work. The reward of seeing all the smiling faces at these events is significant of an overarching love for these animals.
