Team Talk
The Cutting Edge
by Mariette
S-H-A-T-T-E-R-E-D and BROKEN
I always feel so blessed when I wake up in the morning, knowing that I will get yet another
opportunity to spend my day with animals in my care. Animals usually seen in such a negative light –
just the mere mention of the word “reptile” and people tend to shy away or lace words with hatred
towards them.
I am privileged in so many ways. The mere joy of being able to care for them like a mother would
care for her child. Feeding them, cleaning up their mess (yes, sometimes they are worse than
teenagers!) and providing medical care for them as and when required, amongst so many other
things. Getting to know each individual reptile on a personal basis. Their likes and yes, even their
dislikes.
This career sure has its rewards! The mere satisfaction knowing that you could let an animal flourish
and live the best days of its life, is such a great feeling. Reptiles cared for in a well maintained
environment will live much longer than their wild counterparts as they don’t have any natural
predators they need to fight off. Medical care is provided as and when needed. Food is served
regularly without them having to use their precious energy reserves to hunt for it. They also have all
of their heating re