Reasearch before you bring any animal into your family. Reasearch involves more than surfing one website or asking one pet store employee. Look for more recent books, join a herp society, subscribe to Reptiles Magazine. While not 100% foolproof they are a good start. Look for small mammal and avian societies. See what links are recommened on rescue and society websites. Talk to other owners and meet their animals. Talk with veterinarians who treat the species you are interested in.

Be honest with yourself about what you can provide. Are you expecting any future changes such as moving, getting married, having children, etc. If so, consider how each situation may impact your relationship with your pet.

'Rescues' with the intent to rehome or transfer to a rescue should be avoided UNLESS you can provide proper care until the animal is placed. Many people rescue an animal from a bad situation without the means or knowledge themselves to properly care for the animal. If this is the case it is best to find a rescue that can help first, before you take the animal. Your intentions may be good, but you may inadvertantly do further damage.

ADOPT! This is an obvious one. If you are looking for a new friend, adopt a homeless one. Just about any species that is in the pet trade ends up in need of rescue. Some animals are less commonly found in rescue but if you are able to care for an iguana, aquatic turtle, common boa, Burmese python, Savannah monitor, wolfdog, rabbit, parrot, small rodent, ferrert, hedgehog, or Sugar glider there are MANY waiting for you.

If you are unable to adopt plenty of rescues and sanctuaries have sponsorship programs. for a one time, annual or monthly donation you can support an animal that must stay at the rescue or sanctuary. You usually will receive a photo and personal history of the animal. You may also receive a stuffed animal, calendar or other thank you gift. Updates on your new 'pet' may also be sent. Ask if you don't see sponsorship information on the website or brochure. I know you want to tell your friends you just adopted a leopard :)

If you have an animal that you must rehome ask for an adoption fee AND have that fee presented in the form of a check made out to the shelter/rescue/sanctuary of your choice.

Volunteer whether it be as a foster home, administrative, public outreach or other function. The more volunteers, the more that can be accomplished.

Donate money. You can do this directly or make a payment directly to the veterinarian-always a need. You can buy gift certificates to the places the rescue buys supplies.

Item donations. Don't just think animal supplies. Office, cleaning, building and property mainteaence are other categories. How about pre-paid phone cards for long distance calls. look for a wish list on the website or call/email.