Aquarium Celebrates Pet Ownership During Month of February

(Long Island, N.Y.) Atlantis Marine World’s Asian water monitor, Hydro, was given to us by his owners when they could no longer care for him. He quickly grew too big for his home and arrived at the Aquarium missing his tail. We learned that it had been broken, and later amputated, when it got caught in his too-small cage. He also suffered from metabolic bone disease due to improper diet and conditions. After giving him a home here, we had to amputate an additional two-inches from his tail because it was infected. Now happy in an exhibit complete with proper lighting, space, and humidity, his condition has vastly improved. Unfortunately, Hydro will never re-grow his tail and still has difficulties walking due to the metabolic bone disease.

During this whole month, Atlantis Marine World Aquarium is putting the spotlight on what animals make great household pets and those that don’t when we celebrate Responsible Pet Owners Month and take a fresh look at how we care for and treat our pets.

“February offers us the chance to set an example, or pass on to others the essential aspects of being a responsible pet owner,” says Aquarium General Manager, Bryan DeLuca. “And we’re excited to help spread the word on responsible pet ownership through special exhibits, reptile encounters, and much more, all month long, including the next school break scheduled for February 12 – 21.”

Visit www.atlantismarineworld.com for a complete schedule of all upcoming events.

About Asian Water Monitors
Asian water monitors typically reach six-feet in length and can have a lifespan of 25 years. They require lots of room to live with fresh clean dirt, a hide box, lots of lighting, and are happiest in a hot, humid, tropical habitat. Due to their size, speed, and nature to possibly strike unexpectedly, we would recommend a bearded dragon as a home pet.

About Atlantis Marine World Aquarium
Atlantis Marine World (AMW) opened in Riverhead, NY on June 15, 2000, as the first large-scale Aquarium to open in New York State in more than 35 years. Situated on 3.2 acres along the Peconic River, AMW is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm daily (closed December 25). General Admission Rates are $18.50 (plus tax) for Children 3 – 17 and Seniors 62+; $21.50 (plus tax) for Adults 18 – 61; Children 2 and under are always free at AMW. AMW is also the home of The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, New York’s only authorized marine mammal and sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center. Atlantis Marine World was recently ranked by Parents Magazine as one of the “Top Aquariums for Kids.” Additional information can be found at www.atlantismarineworld.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHRISTOPER PAPARO.