Reptiles are the species where the enclosure does most of the work. A reptile does not need company — it needs the right temperature, light, and humidity, every day. The brief is essentially an operating manual for the habitat.
Heat & temperature
Most reptiles need a temperature gradient: a warm basking end and a cooler end so they can regulate. Write the target temperatures for each end, where the thermometers are, and what to do if a reading is off. Note the heat source (basking bulb, heat mat) and its on/off schedule.
- Check both temperatures — warm end and cool end — against the targets.
- Confirm the basking light and UV are on schedule.
- Check humidity; mist or fill the water dish as specified.
- Fresh water in the dish; remove waste.
- Note the feeding day — many reptiles do not eat daily.
UV & lighting
Many reptiles need UVB light on a daily cycle to stay healthy. Tell the sitter the light schedule (often on a timer), and that the bulbs should not be turned off or left on around the clock. If a timer runs the lights, the sitter mainly needs to confirm it is working.
Humidity & water
Humidity targets vary enormously by species — a desert lizard and a tropical gecko have opposite needs. State your target range, how to read the hygrometer, and how to adjust (misting, a larger water dish, partial cover). Keep drinking water fresh.
Feeding intervals
Unlike most pets, many reptiles eat every few days, not daily — so the brief must say exactly which day(s) to feed, what to feed, and how much. Leave food prepared or clearly described. If your reptile is between feedings during the stay, say "no feeding needed" explicitly so the sitter does not overfeed.
Frequently asked
How often do reptiles need to be checked on?
Daily, mostly to confirm the habitat is correct — temperature, light, humidity, water. Feeding may only be every few days, but environmental checks should happen every day.
What if a temperature or humidity reading is wrong?
Leave clear instructions: what the target is, how to adjust, and a number to call if it cannot be corrected. An out-of-range habitat is the main risk for a reptile in care.
Does my reptile need to be fed every day?
Often not. Many snakes and lizards eat every few days or weekly. Tell the sitter exactly which day to feed and what — and say so clearly if no feeding is needed during the stay.
