Ssafe Haven Society for Reptiles and Amphibians is comprised of a team of more than 30 experienced individuals dedicated to providing rescue and rehabilitation, shelter, and adoption services for reptiles and amphibians in Nova Scotia, Canada. If you are a new exotic pet owner or are considering obtaining a reptile or amphibian as a new addition to your family, we also offer support, education and hands-on training. It is operated by herpetoculturists
Denise McKay and
Lisa Balcom, RVT who have over 17 years experience with reptile and amphibian husbandry and rehabilitation. To view Denise's menagerie of critters, click
here. To view Lisa's scaly pets, click
here.
What Can We Do?
- Provide temporary shelter and care to rescued or unwanted reptiles and amphibians in Nova Scotia. Some exceptions apply – please see below.
- Provide rehabilitation to reptiles and amphibians in need. Some exceptions apply – please see below.
- Coordinate reptile and amphibian adoptions and rescues in Nova Scotia.
- Provide information and care sheets regarding the care and handling of reptiles and amphibians upon request.
- Provide hands-on training upon request.
Exceptions
- We cannot adopt prohibited or illegal reptiles and amphibians, such as crocodilians, venomous snakes, etc. in keeping with the regulations for Environment Canada and HRM Bylaw A-300. Please refer to this link with the full pdf document located here and Administrative Order 11 here
. Environment Canada's regulations regarding captive wildlife is located at link 1 and link 2.
- We cannot adopt or provide shelter to reptiles or amphibians that are ill or suspected of having a disease until a qualified Veterinarian examines the animal for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The current owner must incur all costs associated with the Veterinary services.
- In cases where it is apparent that the reptile or amphibian is beyond recovery or is in obvious pain and suffering, humane euthanasia may be the only option.
Adoption Notes
- Appropriate housing, supplements and supplies must accompany the reptile or amphibian whenever possible. A minimum fee of $50.00 will be charged to purchase the required supplies if they cannot be provided by the current owner. In the case of larger reptiles, such as Iguanas or large snakes, this fee may increase accordingly.
- If you are unable to provide us with the necessary supplies to care for your reptile or amphibian or provide us with the fee to purchase the necessary supplies, we will continue to search for a suitable home for your pet. However, your pet may be required to stay with you until an appropriate home is found.
Are you interested in applying for adoption of a reptile or amphibian? Please complete our
Adoption Application Form
Have you been approved for adoption of a reptile or amphibian? Please complete our
Adoption Agreement
Do you have a reptile or amphibian that requires our help to find him or her the perfect new home? Please complete our
Consent Form for Adopters
Would you like to be considered for boarding your reptile or amphibian with us? Please complete our
Consent Form for Boarding
Husbandry and Care Information
