The cost of keeping reptiles...

[kittyhazelton]

Was just curious about how much a year us crazy reptile enthusiasts spend on our beloved critters. Granted, I have more turn-over than the average keeper due to running the rescue, but now that UVRG has been running about a year I've got a pretty good calculation as to about how much it costs me in licences, food, electricity, and other misc supplies... About $8000 a year goes towards the upkeep and care of my animals. Was curious as how much you other guys spend.
One disadvantage I have is that living in new england heat and lighting costs are significant due to having to keep all the big guys inside for 1/2 of the year.

 

[RMorrow]

I feel you pain. Just the electric bill on my reptile building averages about $500 a month. Less in the summer, more in the winter. If I factor in water bill, food for the feeders, I do not want to know my annual total. It must be driven by love because common sense does not seem to be a factor.

 

[Miguel]

I am sorry. I do not do the maths. If I started doing the maths I would stop everything bar rearing my six chidlren and granddaughter.

 

[A. gigas]

about $30 a month... or less

 

[sidneymysnake]

Every time I think about it I make myself stop so I don't admit myself into the local looney bin.

 

[Tom Pecanic]

Gotta love em wholeheartedly to do it!! It's worth each red cent out here in Az...

 

[Rawrzer]

I try not to think about it! XD

 

[coura]

I am sorry. I do not do the maths. If I started doing the maths I would stop everything bar rearing my six chidlren and granddaughter.

You said it, Amen!

 

[snakeguy101]

hold on let me get a calculator and think for a bit....

 

[snakeguy101]

$3500-$4000 range. In FL I have to keep everything inside anyways and the heat from outside and the heat from the heat lamps and the AC running keeping things manageable for me leads to $300 electric bills for my one bedroom apartment in some months. That plus cage upgrades/ maintenance, substrates, water, new bulbs/ heat pads, plus food and a few random occurrences (medical needs etc...) gave me a little over $3750 ball park.