Q: Are you currently accepting surrenders?

A: We are currently on a strict intake hold. Because we are a home-based rescue, we have reached our physical capacity. We cannot accept new animals until we secure our commercial facility. If you need to rehome a reptile, please visit our "Rehoming" page to fill out a Courtesy Listing Request, and we will try to connect you with an adopter.

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Q: Do you charge a surrender fee?

A: Yes once we open up, but safety comes first. As a private rescue receiving no government funding, we request a surrender contribution to help offset the immediate costs of quarantine, medical intake, and food.

• Small Reptiles (Geckos, Corn Snakes): $20

• Medium/Large Reptiles (Ball Pythons, Boas): $40

Our primary goal is the safety of the animal. We will never turn away an animal in danger due to the inability to pay. If you are experiencing financial hardship, please be honest with us - we will work with you.

• Found a stray? There is NO FEE to surrender a lost or stray animal found in the community.

• Equipment Trade: Surrender contributions may be waived if the animal is surrendered with their complete, functional enclosure and supplies.

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Q: Can I just drop an animal off?

A: No. All surrenders must be by appointment only. Because we currently operate out of a private residence, we cannot accept walk-ins. We also require time to prepare a dedicated quarantine enclosure before an animal arrives to ensure the safety of our current residents.

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Q: Do you take Red-Eared Sliders, Iguanas, or Sulcata Tortoises?

A: We review these on a strict case-by-case basis. Because these species require massive enclosures that most homes (and rescues) cannot accommodate, we rarely have the open space to accept them. Please submit a request form, but understand that our capacity for these large giants is extremely limited.

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Q: Do you accept larger snakes (Retics, Burms, or Boas)?

A: We review these on a strict case-by-case basis. In Clark County, non-venomous snakes over 12 feet in length require a specific Exotic Animal Permit and county inspection. Because most foster homes do not hold this permit or have the commercial-grade space required for a 15+ foot animal, our capacity for adult Reticulated Pythons and Burmese Pythons is extremely limited. However, we may be able to assist with Boa Constrictors (BCI/BCC) or provide Courtesy Listings to connect you with experienced giant-keepers who have the proper permits and enclosures.

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Q: Can I come visit the rescue to see the animals?

A: Not at this time. We are currently a home-based network. For the privacy of our residence and team, we do not offer public tours. Once we open our commercial facility, we will have public visiting hours!

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Q: Do you have animals available for adoption right now?

A: Not at this moment. We are focusing all our energy on fundraising and filing our non-profit paperwork. Once our facility is legally established, we will post available animals on our website.

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Q: What will be required to adopt an animal?

A: We have a strict "Enclosure First" policy. You must provide photo proof of a fully set-up, correct enclosure (with proper heat and thermostat) before you can take an animal home. We do not adopt animals into temporary setups - they must be appropriate for the animal and its current life stage. We also prohibit co-habitation, except for in the case for naturally communal species.

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Q: I found a tortoise/snake in my backyard! Can you come get it?

A: No. We are a domestic pet rescue, not wildlife control.

• If it is a Desert Tortoise: It is illegal to handle or move wild Desert Tortoises in Nevada unless they are in immediate danger (like on a road). Please leave it alone.

• If it is a Snake: Most snakes in Las Vegas (like Gopher snakes) are harmless. If you need a venomous snake removed, please contact a professional wildlife removal service or NDOW (Nevada Department of Wildlife).

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Q: I found an injured wild lizard. Can I bring it to you?

A: We are not licensed to rehabilitate wildlife. Please contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Bringing wild animals into a rescue risks spreading diseases to our pet reptiles.

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​Q: My reptile is sick. Can you give me medical advice?

A: We are not veterinarians. We cannot diagnose or treat your animal. If your animal is sick, please contact an exotic veterinarian immediately. Waiting "to see if it gets better" is often fatal for reptiles.

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Q: Do you offer boarding services?

A: Second Chance Reptile Rescue does not offer boarding. However, we want to ensure your pet has safe care while you are away for whatever reason. Please contact us for a list of trusted local boarding partners and experienced pet sitters in the Las Vegas area that we recommend.

 

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Q: Are my donations tax-deductible?

A: Not yet. We are currently in the process of filing for our federal 501(c)(3) status. Any contributions made right now are considered personal gifts to help launch the facility and are not tax-deductible. We will announce as soon as our status is approved!

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Q: How can I help if I can't donate money?

A: Join our "Build Team" Waitlist! When we get our building, we will need help painting, building enclosures, and cleaning. Visit the "Support Us" page to sign up.