Care Guides & Pet Education

At Dobs, Pets & Exotics, we believe that every pet—whether it’s a singing canary, a scaly leopard gecko, or a colourful tropical fish—deserves the very best care. Our detailed care guides are here to help you give your animal a healthy, happy, and enriched life. These guides are based on years of experience and expert knowledge, designed for both first-time owners and seasoned keepers.

Canary Bird Care Guide

Lifespan: 10–15 years
Temperament: Gentle, musical, best enjoyed as a pet to watch and listen to rather than handle frequently.

Housing:

A spacious cage with horizontal bars for climbing.
Place in a quiet, bright room away from draughts and direct sunlight.
Provide natural perches of different widths to keep feet healthy.

Diet:

High-quality canary seed mix supplemented with fresh vegetables (spinach, broccoli, grated carrot).
Occasional boiled egg for extra protein.
Fresh, clean water daily.

Enrichment & Health:

Toys such as swings and mirrors in moderation.
Play canary songs to encourage singing.
Keep the cage clean to prevent respiratory problems.

Leopard Gecko Care Guide

Lifespan: 15–20 years
Temperament: Calm, easy to handle, great for beginners.

Housing:

60cm–90cm terrarium with secure lid.
Warm side (32°C) and cool side (24°C) using heat mat or ceramic bulb.
Hides on both warm and cool ends.

Diet:

Live insects: crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches.
Dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 powder.
Fresh water in a shallow dish.

Enrichment & Health:

Moist hide for shedding.
Avoid loose sand; use reptile carpet or tile.
Regularly check for healthy skin, tail fat, and clear eyes.

Bearded Dragon Care Guide

Lifespan: 10–15 years
Temperament: Friendly, curious, great for interactive owners.

Housing:

120cm–150cm vivarium with strong UVB lighting.
Basking spot of 38–42°C and cool side of 26°C.
Natural décor for climbing and basking.

Diet:

Juveniles: 70% insects, 30% greens.
Adults: 70% leafy greens, 30% insects.
Calcium supplement 5x per week, vitamins 2x per week.

Enrichment & Health:

Offer supervised time outside the enclosure.
Bath occasionally to aid shedding and hydration.
Avoid feeding insects caught outdoors.

Tropical Fish Care Guide

Lifespan: Varies by species (2–10+ years)
Temperament: Peaceful or semi-aggressive depending on type.

Housing:

Appropriately sized aquarium (minimum 60L for beginners).
Use water conditioner and maintain correct pH and temperature.
Filtration system running 24/7.

Diet:

Quality tropical fish flakes or pellets.
Supplement with frozen or live foods.
Feed small amounts twice daily.

Enrichment & Health:

Plants, rocks, and hiding spots for security.
Weekly partial water changes (20–30%).
Avoid overstocking the tank.

Tortoise & Turtle Care Guide

Lifespan: 30–80+ years
Temperament: Calm, but requires long-term commitment.

Housing:

Tortoises: Large indoor or outdoor pen with UVB lighting.
Aquatic turtles: Large aquarium with basking platform and strong filter.
Temperature gradients for both species.

Diet:

Tortoises: Variety of weeds, leafy greens, and vegetables.
Turtles: Commercial turtle pellets, leafy greens, occasional insects or fish.
Always provide fresh water.

Enrichment & Health:

Safe climbing rocks, logs, and varied terrain.
Keep enclosures clean to avoid shell rot.
Regular vet checks for long-term health.

Corn Snake Care Guide

Lifespan: 15–20 years
Temperament: Docile, easy to handle, ideal for beginners.

Housing:

90cm–120cm secure vivarium.
Warm side (28°C) and cool side (22°C).
Hides on both ends and branches for climbing.

Diet:

Pre-killed, appropriately sized rodents every 7–10 days.
Fresh water in a sturdy bowl.

Enrichment & Health:

Branches, hides, and tunnels for exploring.
Avoid handling during shedding.
Clean enclosure regularly to prevent parasites.

Your Pet’s Wellbeing Comes First
Every pet is unique. Use these guides as a starting point, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Dobs, Pets & Exotics for tailored advice, supplies, and support. We’re here to help you give your pet the happiest and healthiest life possible.