A residence teeming with snakes and spiders may evoke fear in many individuals, but for seasoned exotic pet enthusiast Nolan Asplund, these creatures are cherished members of his extended family. Asplund, an aspiring zoologist at 17, lovingly cares for over 70 reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids under the banner of Funky Fresh Reptiles, a business based in his family home in Okotoks, a suburb of Calgary.
His menagerie includes a diverse array of creatures such as leopard geckos, Santa Isabel poison dart frogs, a Brazilian rainbow boa, ball python, Asian forest scorpions, a camel spider, and more than a dozen tarantulas. Asplund is just one enthusiast in a thriving exotic pet community in Alberta, especially in and around Calgary, which has witnessed significant growth in recent times. The city has become a hub for exotic pet enthusiasts, hosting major events like the Western Canadian Reptile Expo and Calgary Reptile Expo, drawing in large crowds.
Cody Faulds, the president of the Alberta Reptile and Amphibian Society, notes the steady expansion of the exotic pet community in Calgary. The attendance at events like the Calgary Reptile Expo has been on the rise, with an increasing number of people seeking guidance on caring for exotic pets. Faulds, a reptile owner himself, credits the surge in interest to the growing accessibility of the hobby.
The landscape of exotic pet ownership has evolved significantly since the inception of the Alberta Reptile and Amphibian Society in 1984, according to Faulds. The availability of a wider range of exotic pets in stores and landlords being more open to allowing them on their properties have contributed to the hobby’s popularity. Faulds expresses optimism about the upward trend, emphasizing the shift towards viewing exotic pets as part of the family rather than dangerous creatures.
Despite the growing enthusiasm for exotic pets, there are concerns raised by organizations like the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association regarding the ownership of certain species. While some animals like ball pythons, corn snakes, and bearded dragons are considered low-risk and commonly kept in Canadian households, others, such as venomous snakes and large species, pose potential dangers.
The legality of exotic pet ownership varies across Canada, with regulations largely determined by local jurisdictions. In Alberta, a list of “controlled species” prohibits the ownership of several reptiles, including snapping turtles, alligators, crocodiles, venomous lizards, and various snakes like anacondas and cobras. Tracy Fisher, the association’s president and a veterinarian, highlights the increasing interest in non-traditional pets and the importance of understanding the complex care needs and lifespans of exotic animals.
Apart from his passion for caring for exotic pets, Asplund is committed to educating people about these creatures and dispelling misconceptions surrounding them. He emphasizes the peaceful nature of many exotic pets and advocates for giving them the respect they deserve. Asplund believes that debunking myths and understanding the true nature of these animals can foster a deeper appreciation for them among the public.