why i wont buy another chameleon again

[@misswhite4650]

Omg i thought she was gonna say carl died. Phew

[@tracy_cakkes]

Me too 😓

[@meganamn4125]

me too

[@ww1andww2history]

Me too

[@alphabrothers9459]

Same 😰

[@NatashaGraves555]

Me too.............

[@emmasgoodies]

12:48 "I would never force that relationship on him" Thank you for talking about this! People need to respect animals.

[@norak8239]

Hihi Emma! Weiiiirrddd I watched a video of yours this morning. I just baked scones 10 min ago 😜🤭 now watching Megan.

[@emmasgoodies]

@@norak8239 Ahah hi lovely!! Absolutely love scones!🙌

[@pearlfields1648]

completely. My cham is very defensive so i leave him be, unless absolutely neccescary.

[@kalinageorgieva4331]

But orders KFC 🤔

[@cinnamongirl3947]

Yes!! my mom always tried forcing me to take her out!! i knew to respect her space, my chameleon was an introvert

[@BethIsWriting]

He’s lucky to have you and didn’t end up with someone who doesn’t care or isn’t passionate about his species.

[@meganlacoste]

aw thank you!🙏❤️

[@raquelsg13]

I really think you are already helping chameleons. And you are educating all of us about chameleons. Don’t be sad, you are doing your best!

[@meganlacoste]

thank you!!🙏❤️

[@raquelsg13]

@@meganlacoste 😘 🤗

[@alliesinger297]

Girl they’re your babies you need to keep saving your babies

[@vc_network]

Thanks for your positive loving comment & support! We need more people like you in the world! 🥰 Please spread some Chameleon love and laughter ❤ We all can use to smile more 💕☺ kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXSrfIGQYraNn9U If you love Chameleons please check out our little guy. He's a hungry Jackson's Chameleon

[@elberbelbers]

I thought I wanted one and after your guidelines video I thought no way, too many things can go wrong, then I saw this video and I knew I made the right decision. I don’t care how diligent anyone is at taking care of them, That’s not how they’re suppose to live.

[@yeseniadleyva3199]

I know this petition is just about reptiles in specific chameleons, but everyone please stop buying animals just to satisfy you in any way. Because ANY animal that you are bringing home needs love, care, time, and patience. Don't just buy a pet out of impulse because you will make another living being suffer. I've seen so many animals on the streets or in shelters abused and neglected, that if you have a heart it will break it. I can't sign the petition because I don't live in the UK but I will take this to start one. -Thank you for bringing awareness into this matter. 🙏

[@bradgaming6700]

Shit really makes me wonder if I really can handle a chameleon i might get one for christmas cause my,biggest fear is me being happy but him not and she i feel is right i as a 16 year old shouldet be able to get one i should be required a license

[@rican2463]

@@bradgaming6700 i have a veiled chameleon and she is cute but she is not wrong when she said they get sick easily omg mine got sick twice n happy she got better but like they arent so easy to take care off

[@teijaflink2226]

Please really consider if it's the right thing, can you give the chameleon everything he needs, if not please don't get one. And have you found ebough good information how to keep one and too are you ready for all the possible vet bills.

[@detsnumber1]

I honestly don't think my vet would have a clue how to treat one even. We live out in the sticks and it's all cows and sheep. I wouldn't want to risk it.

[@rican2463]

@@detsnumber1 damn man

[@elliemurray6086]

You never know where Carl may have ended up if you hadn’t adopted him! He’s so lucky to be taken care of by such a loving and passionate owner and the fact you feel sad he’s not in the wild is enough to prove how much you care for him! Just remember that he could’ve ended up with someone who didn’t care about him or look after him properly, and he’s so lucky you’re his owner ❤️

[@meganlacoste]

thank you girl!!🙏❤️

[@corinnecornett9280]

This is how I feel, I know you can't stop pet stores, but you can do the best you can to educate yourself and others on what's going on, and do better.

[@Philanazoie]

You have such a big heart, I know you said you feel bad having him because he can’t be in the wild- but you are so meant to have him as opposed to another owner! and to be a zoologist. You’re so passionate I teared up. I loved hearing about how Carl interacts/communicates, only someone who really cares and has a connection with their pets or animals can explain that. I learned so much in this video but once you graduate you should really consider being the zoologist youtuber/female Steve irwin and teach us all about different animals. I love it and you’re gorgeous it would bring in so many views

[@sus4nah]

Rewatching this video and I love this comment. The world needs more Steve Irwins @Megan!! Be the Steve Irwin the world needs!!

[@Bananaaabread]

I feel like you should have a license for every type of reptile that is difficult to take care of! I had no idea how hard it could be to take care of them until your videos, thank you, Megan!

[@Cheezybrie]

Honestly all animals should require a license

[@ZHExotics]

@@Cheezybrie I respectfully disagree, while I think certain species need a license, definitely not all animals need a license to be own

[@BartBasquiato]

Naw cause then you're making it more of a hassle for responsible owners to go get a license only because people lack common sense & just cause they see her w a cham they now want to get one too w/out doing research.

[@bugloverspiderlover8490]

@@Cheezybrie that’s a very BAD idea,would cause more problems than benefits!

[@MegaMusicMuse]

Thank you for addressing a huge problem: humans don’t recognize that all animals have rights; rights to life; rights to proper care and rights to be in their natural environment. You have a huge heart. You are educating people and that’s very important. “Pets” are living and intelligent beings. We might “own” them but that means we are responsible for their physical, mental and emotional well-being.

[@themoodyonejb]

Indeed!!!

[@irishludwig2790]

Amen. Pets are living awesome beings. They have personality and can feel love and show love.

[@felichia808]

This comment is so true.

[@MegaMusicMuse]

@@felichia808 ❤️

[@DX-d]

I cried at the part about him being stuck in a tank for the rest of his life.You’re such a compassionate person 💜

[@isabelmarin9429]

Thank you for making this video. Too many people buy exotic pets without knowing how to properly take care of them. This is a serious issue that needs more attention.

[@cinnamongirl3947]

i bought a veiled chameleon last year in october and she’s right. The care is so stressful and draining. My chameleon passed away just a couple weeks ago, i only had her for a year and a couple weeks. I felt so much guilt while having her, for the same reasons. You imagine them thriving in the wild and it hurts knowing you’re taking away from that. I’d have literal nightmares of her. I know this was from guilt of having her and knowing i wasn’t giving proper care.

[@madisonfoglesong9289]

It's so important for influencers like you to get the word out about these kinds of issues. Thank you!

[@KD-mh3xv]

This video shows SO MUCH self reflection and that's major. I would love a goldfinch, but I feel it wouldn't be fair.

[@raquelrossiter5911]

The older I get the more uncomfortable I am with the way we keep animals and use them for entertainment. In so many cases the more knowledge you have on them the more you realize what they need and the more you realize they're not super happy being kept as pets most of the time or in a zoo :(

[@dhfjgktdmfhfj1716]

Yes me too. Been thinking about that this week. I have a rabbit and even though he's a rescue he deserves better than the apartment life 😞

[@roofs817]

I’m pretty sure it’s not that they aren’t happy, even animals directly from the wild can be happy depending on if they’ve been around the person since they were a baby or not, I don’t support having wild animals as pets though and I do believe they should be in the wild but all animals CAN (not all of them will) be happy as pets

[@raquelrossiter5911]

Surely there are some cases where what is necessary for the animal to be happy as a pet is far beyond what humans can offer and still get whatever entertainment or companionship we require to make it worth it? E.g. orcas at sea world

[@LillyLuck88]

Adopt, don't shop! That's the only way to find a pet. This video is testimony to you big heart

[@meganlacoste]

thank you🙏❤️️

[@ABC-iv9kk]

What do you mean by adopt, don’t shop?

[@lucy-fm1tk]

@@ABC-iv9kk it means you should adopt animals from rescues or shelters instead of buying animals from pet shops

[@Princessbubblegum567]

Or find a RESPONSIBLE and good Breeder. Good breeder make it their priority to raise healthy animals and get them accustomed to human world in order for them to thrive. Also, breeders are important because they make exotic animals accessible to people so people are not catching wild animals from the wild. Responsible breeders also deeply care for their animals’ wellbeing and won’t just give their animals to anyone who wants them hence why exotic animals are expensive (to filter out impulse buyers and irresponsible people from purchasing their animals). Note that I said RESPONSIBLE and GOOD breeders. I have 50+ animals and all my animals came from reputable breeders or rescue animals. Chain pet stores are not good source to buy animals from.

[@ryantremper1030]

What about the lizards stuck in pet stores in cages to small??? Just let them rot because you don't shop you only adopt??? I get your point but it's very flawed at the same time.....just sayin

[@PS-fk5zv]

I love how you're so attentive and actively learning. I feel like not many pet owners have this quality.

[@Stuffandstuff974]

I've recently bought a chameleon for myself and my kids the other day. Thanks for making this video. I've found it really helpful with great tips to look out for. This is going to help me keep her healthy and happy.

[@angeldejesus3818]

You actually changed my mind about getting a chameleon

[@Lala-fd6cf]

Honestly seeing him staring at the window like that was so heartbreaking, such a beautiful soul.. thank you for sharing an important message, I feel like I had neglected my turtle so badly I can’t even look at him, u motivated me to do better.. my precious turtle is gonna appreciate it!

[@annievautour9069]

you are going to be an AMAZING zoologist. I am in awe of your passion and knowledge surrounding this field. Megan, you are a wonder:) you inspire me to pursue what I am passionate about, whatever that may be... I hope to find out sooner than later. but I won’t be afraid to go back to school for it whatever it is because of you!!

[@gina1710]

Poor little guy :( but your taking care of him & that’s all that matters.

[@saranalen2741]

Such a beautiful person, inside and out ❤️

[@meganlacoste]

thank you🙏❤️

[@Straberry9567]

In my country getting a chameleon is illegal because having an exotic animal is not legal and i personally agree with that However if some countries do make it legal it should definitely require a licence as you said. You learned a lot from having Carl though i think it brought you a lot of knowledge, spread the word haha

[@elenaspano5067]

That’s so interesting! Where are you from?

[@Straberry9567]

@@elenaspano5067 I'm from Israel. Yes It's interesting how it's different in each country. We have the 'Nature and Parks Authority' government organization and if you do want to own an animal categorized as exotic or wild you would need a permit from them.

[@janelleluna1920]

I cried when I saw carl looking out the window 😭 you’re doing your best girl and thank you for educating all of us! I learned so much ❤️

[@tigerlily362]

I know you feel bad for having to keep him in a cage but the exotic reptile/animal trade puts them in the hands of bad people. Carl is safe with you and he loves you. Any time you feel bad about the lifestyle he has, just remember he could have ended up with the wrong person. He has been sick with different infections and you were able to help him and save him. Thank you for making this video. I hope a lot of people see it. I hope the exotic animal trade ends because these precious little lives deserve to live in their own habitat. You are a beautiful person ❤ Carl loves you so enjoy every moment with him

[@lolagrace6683]

Awww Megan you brought tears to my eyes and btw you've done a great job with Carl throughout and I am so glad you posted this video, truly brighten up my day :)

[@meganlacoste]

thanks lola!! 🙏❤️

[@Ilikeoatmealmorethanyou]

this was a great informative video!! i hope people who are thinking about adopting a chameleon watch this and consider all aspects of bringing one into their home! 💚 i'm so glad carl has somebody like you that pays attention and cares so much for him and treats him how he should be treated! 💚

[@gabriellejones6116]

Thank you so much for this! It was very informative, and very responsible of you. My friend in college had a chameleon and a few other pets. He would always talk about the amount of time/effort he had to put into keeping his chameleon healthy and happy vs his several other pets. He also said he would never recommend them as pets to anyone, but he worked in a petco and would often sell them to regular people who thought it’d be an easy peasy pet. I think a license would be a smart idea not just in the UK but around the world!

[@donnawilson9537]

Your doing your best with carl. Don't worry so much he has a good life with you. You've obviously have educated yourself so much in regards to giving him the best care possible. I can see how much you care about this,you will make a difference. Take care.

[@meganlacoste]

thank you 🙏❤️

[@classys-chassis6433]

Chameleons are a very hard reptile to keep they need specific lighting a misting system. And daily interactions and feeding and they dont live very long compared to geckos and snakes.

[@floopy_ears]

We just got a chameleon yesterday, but not by choice. Our neighbors split up so the wife moved out with the kids and they left their chameleon outside for who knows how long and asked if we wanted it. We asked questions about enclosure, type, age, etc. But we hadn't known it was outside all day until they texted us "shes outside if you want her, we moved". We immediately went to get her. 1) she didnt have a UVB light, 2) she was on the ground of her enclosure 3) her hind leg bones were hardly visible in Xrays 4) her colors were so dark, she was basically black. We have never had to care for any kind of lizard so yeah, I'm terrified but we're trying to care for her best we can.

[@meganlacoste]

omg that's so sad, i can't believe they just left him/her outside!! :( if you ever need help or have questions you can always dm me on my Instagram @meganmargot

[@kwpp7]

I think it's really sweet that you have such a tender heart toward the needs of your chameleon, in terms of them getting to explore in a more natural setting and whatnot and how happy and healthy they are in captivity. This kind of a video is very helpful.

[@dawnbassett6926]

Thank you for exposing this important issue! Hopefully this will make people think of how they get their “pets.”

[@Alysana2604]

This video is so touching and actually sad, I teared up a bit with you. If he wasn't at a loving place like your home and was sold to you by a breeder anyway who raised him for profit, he would probably NEVER have been able to roam around and explore the world either way. At least you give him all the love and support and care you can, and that's worth hella lot. I don't even dare to imagine a different scenario of someone getting him "on a whim" and not taking care of him properly and not taking it as seriously as you. Thank you for making this video. I don't really ever want to have a reptile, since I know they are mostly high maintenance and I am high maintenance myself, girl. But this was very touching and informative. He is so lucky to have ended up in your home. Thank you for these videos and talking about Carl getting sick as well, it's very hard for most pet parents to admit that so openly. I haven't seen any other content of yours besides these two chameleon videos, but I'm giving you a like and sub to support you. Wish I could give you a hug rn... Also I used to have bunnies and those are prone to dying from stress too. So that's not a chameleon only thing. We all need to do more research and take care of our animals properly, since they are part of our family once they enter our homes and deserve a happy life.

[@jordanalberts5988]

I don’t own a reptile but I do have a dog and I often feel bad that I don’t have a huge garden for him to run around in or a huge house... but he was a rescue and 2 families thought he wasn’t good enough! He is the sweetest soul I have ever experienced in an animal and shows to much love and happiness to me and my partner. Yes he could living his best life with acres of land but I can’t give him that. What I can give him is daily walks in the local park, an infinite amount of cuddles and love and yummy food and plent of play and interaction and at the end of the day he’s much better off with us who adore him than someone who won’t appreciate or care for him properly. (This was way longer than I expected!) What I am trying to say is buy more plants for him to chill on and think how small he is compared to your flat... it will be pretty big and interesting to him! You You care and love him as much as you can so I’d say that’s plenty good enough!

[@Fairytainted59]

i really wanted a chameleon but watching this completely changed my mind 100%, poor chameleons☹️

[@noahhoward390]

I sadly am part of that 28% I wish I would have known all these facts before I got mine. Best of luck with the petition!

[@meganlacoste]

i'm sorry to hear that.. losing a pet is never easy 🙏❤️️ and thank you!!

[@brielle19]

You are such a kind soul! I think this is something you can think about for your future career, too. Advocating and researching for this topic. Grateful Carl has such a good caretaker for him. Just think you could’ve saved him from a bad owner ❤️

[@meganlacoste]

thank you!!🙏❤️

[@jermainecliame7493]

I was just thinking about carl! This also applies to pet PARROTS! Please re think buying a parrot.

[@kelslittlezoo]

As someone who owns 5 parrots, I can agree with this comment. Parrots are NOT easy pets to keep, they require so much time, energy and care its insane. Some parrots aren't meant to be kept as pets. But since they are and cannot be released, these birds are basically my life and I have vowed to give them the best life humanly possible.

[@Messenger4now]

Your sooo right!

[@lisajaws8514]

As someone with 2 rescued parrots, I TOTALLY agree! Megan, I get the same feelings about my birds--that I feel bad for them that they can't be flying free in the wild as intended. I can't possibly give them the quality of life they deserve, but I do everything I can. I let the African Grey fly all over the house because I can't bear to take his flight away. My amazon doesn't even know that he can fly because his wings were clipped the whole time before I rescued him.

[@gaylelauren5691]

@@lisajaws8514 thank u for being a kind rescuer. I have a friend that rescued 3 african greys and she let's them fly too

[@emmaabdul-jabbar3458]

Hell yeh- they’ll get so stressed they pull all their feathers out.

[@bethwednesday3679]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video and share this information with your audience. It is so, so important to make people aware of the background and the ins and outs of the pet trade and what goes into caring for animals. I 100% agree people should need a licence to "own" any pet. These are sentient beings and depend on us to protect and care for them

[@RonWylie-gk5lc]

You're a very nice person Megan and also a very sensible owner. I can't stop thinking about him looking out of that window!. Great advice for anyone who loves these amazing creatures and are thinking about owning one, it is a HUGE commitment and really needs study and understanding before you buy one. Well done pet, your as beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside

[@JupiterSun-888]

Thank you so much for having such deep integral values & care, to come & speak the deeper truths of the realities of what it means to care for an exotic animal of this nature. This information is important & is such a powerful support for others too.

[@meganlacoste]

thank you!🙏❤️️

[@IlovehondaIlovehonda]

I wanted a A Chamaeleon for the longest time. But just seen how hard they are to keep I’d rather not get one because I know it would die within the first year so instead of taking a life I’m going to spare one thank you for your very informational videos

[@yyg4632]

your care love and respect is just amazing. the fact that you felt the responsibility to inform everyone even MORE is just very good. and i learned that i love chameleons and also would never get one because of you lol.

[@shrutibhinda5220]

You are an inspiration Megan. I found your channel about 2 months ago and Ive binge watched all your videos. You are literally my FAVORITE KZbinR. I've always loved your relationship with Carl cause it's just something Ive never seen before. The way you take care of him and respect him is something extraordinary to me. This video gave me a whole other perspective about chameleons. You are doing them justice. Keep up. Love you❤

[@MegaLiz1973]

Wow what a wonderful compassionate woman you are , it’s just a testament to how much you love and care about these wonderful creatures, thank u for your honesty I’ll be signing yr petition xx

[@arantzaortiz834]

I'm really proud of you, of how educated you are and the fact that you want to study to pursue zoology in order to help and take care of animals and to spread awareness of how to properly take care of them, that only shows how passionate you are. You don't have to feel guilty of having Carl because before purchasing him you didn't know how hard it was, and i'm pretty sure he's in the best hands. I really look forward to every Thursday because you upload and i'm very excited for Vlogmas!! I've commented this before but you're one of my favorite youtubers hahaha!

[@meganlacoste]

aw thank you!!!🙏❤️

[@jlm517rocks]

What an amazing video, articulate, interesting and truly compassionate. If you were my student, I'd give you credit on any class to pass with high marks for the details, research and social awareness urgency. Gold star.

[@meganlacoste]

thank you judy!!🙏❤️️

[@xewa7951]

I also think it’s cruel how people keep them in their housing all day instead of letting them spend a lot of time outside of the enclosure. My auntie had a Chameleon, it had an enclosure but also several big trees in the house that it could chill on during the day and would also go in the garden. She never got another one as she was extremely attached to him & also said she doesn’t believe they should be kept as pets, I guess it was an eye opening experience. Something I wish other people could see without experiencing owning one. I’m glad that you have posted an updated video informing people of the reality of keeping a Chameleon. It’s good to see that you take caring for Carl very seriously & showing such empathy for him - it’s a good thing that he ended up with you and not someone else. Thank you for creating this Petition, hopefully it will bring change. It makes me so sad to see people shut them in enclosures all day, there’s really no need for them to be subjected to such negligence.

[@kasmaineheyoka540]

Every thing you said is absolutely educational, important, and needs to be known. I actually thought about getting one, now that I’ve seen your video. I am not going to get one, thank you for educating me and I’m glad I found your video. I totally agree with you!

[@azzouza29]

ur makeup is lowkey PERFECT? ❤️✨

[@meganlacoste]

aw thank youuu!❤️

[@kelliegossman6301]

Megan Margot You are beautiful inside and out!

[@annee7787]

Carl is so blessed to have you Megan, you take excellent care of him and love him and it shows. You are beautiful inside and out! Thank you for making this and for making people aware.

[@knzhola]

It’s beautiful how much you appreciate him and acknowledge his views. He’s very blessed 🥲 Your intentions is all that matters. You are giving him a good life and it makes a difference that you truly care for him

[@alexsearltea1746]

Mad respect for you, so I don't want you to feel bad. I came from watching your Chameleon take care guide, but my overall thought was 'that is some serious work I won't be up for, sure I would like the idea of having one as a pet but I'm not a consistent person'. So I'm sure there were others who thought the same. I love how you address this and not throw it under the bus. Keep up the good work! I'm glad Carl is happy and trusts his owner :)

[@kimchilover8172]

You’re such a sweet sweet person. The amount of passion you have for this, is amazing. Thank you for putting out all this information. I’m not even looking to get a chameleon but I watched this whole video. So sad 😞

[@MonicaMettert]

Looking out the window is good for him-passive stimulation is a way for him to get some of the environmental stimulation he would get in the wild. 💗

[@debbiebc9527]

God bless you girl 🙏🏻 I’m so happy you made this video! People need to know! I agree that this kind of animal is not a fit for a home but I know with your good heart and dedication you will make the best of his life! You’ve done your best so far and now with your new realization you will do even better! Don’t feel guilty, you didn’t know and now that you do you are already doing something about it! Good for you 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 People: all animals have feelings in some way, they feel pain and they have personality! Please treat them with respect!!! They are not objects! Thank you Megan ❤️

[@Mellovesdeep25]

This is such an important video. I got a veiled cham and I knew and was told nothing. I came home and found out I have a female, not a male and she hates me. I spend hours every day feeding her different types of bugs, buying her new plants, researching and worrying about her. She doesn’t seem to be happy and it makes me so sad because all I want from her is for her to be so happy. Petco didn’t even tell me I had to mist her! I had to ask a million questions and order everything on Amazon it was very stressful.

[@bubble1778]

Im in the same situation!!! Any tips that arent easy to get?

[@Mellovesdeep25]

@@bubble1778 she went through being gravid and was huge. She just laid her eggs last week, 56 eggs! She is totally different after. So happy so much more at ease. She was basically going through puberty. I suggest Neptune the chameleon for tips on how to prepare for them to lay and how to set up a lay bin! She has lots of other great tips too

[@coweenuhm9662]

My god, you are an incredibly pure soul 🥰 thank you for sharing the honesty of the hardships of chameleons. I’m a huge reptile lover and it’s refreshing to see a genuine advocate. He’s lucky to be housed with you. You seem very well prepared and knowledgeable about his species. If only people all respected all types of animals like you do, we’d have a much better world.

[@macrochelys]

what you went through in your mind is the best thing we could get out of the reptile hobby, not only we care about our animals but their family in the wild and their habitat, it doesn't matter how many of them are on the market, they are part of the environment, the wild once count, thanks for bringing up the awareness of that

[@scoutd197]

You are such a responsible owner. OMG I was tearing up with you. Thank you for this, education is so important and I’ve learnt more than I knew 💖

[@amandashank1858]

I am glad you posted this. I was thinking of getting one for my next reptile but you have changed my mind. And Carl is adorable. :)

[@yusurkassem4174]

I literally just watched your video on giving tips on taking care of chameleons, and as much as I love them, I was annoyed and commented about leaving animals (especially chameleons & other wild animals) in their wild nature. I'm glad I then saw that you made this video. You shouldn't feel bad about having him now and I know you (and most people that get them as pets) are trying to give them the best life possible, but it doesn't change the fact that it's not their natural environment that they should be in. I'm really happy that you're educating people about this now, because at this point that's all you can do, as well as giving him the best life possible.

[@gavinayling8606]

Hey Megan... I think your video had great meaning and great insight. I am a pet shop owner in the UK and I agree with most of what you said. All pet shops in the UK have to be licensed to sell any livestock. I agree that all reptiles should carry a licence like some tortoises do. I would just like to reassure you that I will never sell any live animal to anyone I don’t think is capable or has the right knowledge to care for them properly. This is the general census in the majority of UK pet shops. My shop offers 24/7 free after care for all animals sold, this hopefully minimises the risk of serious illness or worst death. We keep a record of all sales and customers are contacted to find out how there pets are doing and if they have any concerns or worries. ..... I could go on forever, so happy to chat with you anytime about this. Don’t get me wrong I love this video and I am so glad you made it. Keeping any exotic shouldn’t be taken lightly. Stay safe

[@alexandrahokanson]

Thank you for this perspective and side of exotic pets no one talks about. You care so so much and are going to make an amazing zoologist.

[@Lrddean]

honestly I'm a little late to this video but I just wanted to say even though it is sad and sucks that he lives in that cage for his whole life you are still giving him a wonderful life and if you didn't have him he could have gone to someone who isn't going to give him as much care as you do. With or without you he would be living in captivity but at least with you he's so happy and healthy because you care for him!

[@spiritualff]

Can I just say…you have the biggest heart! I love the fact that you feel so much for animals and people. It’s really refreshing to see.

[@Readyteddygo]

You seem like a really sweet and kind lady. I wish more people were like you ❤️

[@yvonnevalentine16]

This is the most important video online!!! These are good warnings kids shouldn't own them, or anyone not prepared to spend tons of money, time, vet bills and care. They belong in the wild. My chameleon just passed away she loved the window too. It's incredibly sad. 28.2% is too high and it's definitely higher. STRESS is extremely important. Thanks for educating the public.

[@carsonokeeffe]

This is such a brave and important video. Thank you for having the courage and vulnerability to share it. I think you should put it in the description of your chameleon care video so more people will see it.

[@ulafajkowska190]

I fully understand you Megan. Every time i think about having a pet, these thoughts of not being the right person to take care of them really put me off... But sometimes pets are better off when people look after them sooo don't feel bad bc you do the best you can❤️

[@emp_art_and_stories]

I totally feel you, girl. I used to own hermit crabs, but after I found out about the hermit crab trade, I swore that I would never buy one again. I've also spoken up to shop owners on the coast (hermits are often sold as "souveniers"), but they didn't care. The crabbies aren't endangered like chameleons, but they also have a very high first-year mortality rate. Most hermit crabs last about 3 months, and I was so happy that I was able to take care of mine for almost 3 years. They usually live up to 30 years in the wild, so I don't think they died at the right time (even thoough I did my absolute best). They are also taken from the wild because they don't breed in captivity, so their ages when I got them were unknown. I really hope the exotic pet trade ends, so I am so glad you made this video. I was planning on getting a chameleon soon, but I think now I either won't adopt at all or adopt from a shelter or someone who can't take care of theirs anymore. Awareness needs to be raised

[@alw4eva]

I really loved this video Megan, this was so amazing. You really love Chameleons and people don't really understand their care. We built our Jackson's a 6ft x4ft screened enclosure and people thought we were doing "too much". Again, I really loved the info you put out there!

[@nickpucci7040]

Fate is a funny thing sometimes. He’s lucky to have you as his owner. You r so on. We all want the thing we love to be happy and healthy. A chameleon can bring so much joy but also frustration. It’s a complicated pet and like you say can really feel it when we make inevitable mistakes. Even more frustrating is the lack of happy emotions towards their owners who r used to that from all their other pets. With that said, for me, having success with a tough customer is so pleasing, and for you, saving this chameleon is some very hard situations was amazing!! Totally appreciate this vid, thanks for sharing and being real.

[@coraldawn191]

I just randomly came across your channel&your sensitivity totally reminded me of myself. Your thought process about Carl&the guilt you feel reminded me of feelings I had when I had my first leopard geckos. Youre a ream sweetheart& Carl is lucky that he got you! If YOU didnt get him, where would he be mami? Youre an angel,his angel. You saved him. Hes interested in his world which is why he loves the window. Your video is extremely important..... im proud of you. Thank you for being YOU!

[@bandteesnblazers]

You are so sweet - I can see how much you love Carl and you are doing a great job giving him his best life. I have a ferret for our family, which is also another animal that can be rather hard to take care of due to their health problems. Even though he can't be outside, you give him a lot of attention and love, and that's awesome! xo

[@alexandradullisear5716]

You've opened my eyes to how much care chameleons need and how fragile they are,thank you ❤

[@w00dness]

Ur amazing! That education looks good on u girl!

[@gull_s]

Such an educational video Megan (thank God! cause the title made me scared about Carl)

[@gensenmyers2588]

Nice to see this video from you, I think in the original educational video you put out your intentions & heart were in the right place but I think this brings a feel of "reality" to the level of care they require and I commend you for circling back to take the time to put this out there... I hope Carl is still ruling your world. :) Take care!

[@kyli3__]

Made me tear up when you were talking about him just wanting to look out the window. He is lucky to have you :) Taking care of animals, especially as pets is one of the most stressful things. I wish I could sign your petition! I didn't know that about petitions and numbers of signatures in governments. Thank you for the educational video!

[@evasage14]

oh god im crying too. your vulnerability- it’s so appreciated. im reallllly emotional as well so this video resonated with me in so many ways. work at pet supplies and we have a chameleon there and i’ve been considering getting them simply because I hate him in a such a small cage even though I know it’s temporary but god it still hurts. luckily i’m surrounded by a crew of workers who truly care for animals and so although individually we can’t stop this huge pet market-WHICH IS WHY COLLECTIVE ACTION IS SO IMPORTANT- we don’t let people buy pets unless they can TRULY care for them, and have all of the things they need. I fucking hate the comercial pet industry and want to eventually get to the point where i can protest against it. i completely agree that people should have a liscene to buy chameleons. your video has inspired me to make a petition of my own for the u.s so I will edit this comment and put the link once it’s done. i don’t really know if i’ll end up getting a chameleon because I truly need to think about it assess if i can give him 100% the best life possible. i love animals more than anything so i understand the guilt deep. I feel guilty for having Milo, my dog, whom i love with everything in me. and of puede dogs are reliant on humans now for survival but i have so guilty of this idea of taking him away from his mom. don’t worry though I take him on constant walks, puppy play dates and give him all the love he wants and needs. but still the domestication of wild animals in conjunction with captilism is a recipe for explotation. reptiles really shouldn’t be pets so the best thing we can do for them, i think, is to protest and advocate for their rights and then get to the point where we can boycott buying them all together or just give them the best life possible in captivity-which is exactly what you are doing. seeing him look out the window really hurts, how could you no cry when talking about that-it just goes to show how much you are and chameleons NEED that- someone who who can care and advocate for them. Know that you are not alone, there are so many animal lovers out there who just need an opportunity to start advocating for animals and you just gave one! thank you for all that you do for animals. you ARE making a difference so don’t downplay it, and while i don’t lie you personally you seem like an incredible person. im sure carl thinks the same❤️

[@nicolecharbonneau4871]

You are so strong. You are raw and real, your helping so many people. Your love of animals is so pure.

[@emmadodsworth7318]

I love your passion for animals, you are an incredible person!

[@meganlacoste]

thank you🙏❤️️

[@MizpahMoo]

Heartfelt Video, I agree with you about how sad it is to see animals like Carl in captivity. As beautiful as they are they are really best in the wild. People really don’t know how to care for them properly, and as you say many die very quickly..in captivity. As a child I lived in Cape Town for a while, I used to pick up wild chameleons and play with them for a while, I fell in love with them they are fascinating animals with their eyes and gloves and their colour changes, I always popped them back in the trees, and never held them of too long. I’ve always wanted one for myself but I know it’s never going to happen, having looked into it, their husbandly is complex and complicated and most die through our lack of understanding of their needs, & they really shouldn’t be kept as pets. Recently, I became a wild Hedgehog rescue ( U.K. hedgehogs ) . Not pet hedgehogs but wild ones, I care for them treat their problems ( if I can ). And then once they are better they go back to the wild. Those who come in too poorly or cut up from strimmers or rta’s get pTS by the vet sadly, I do what I can always but some I can’t save. I do my work voluntarily. Hedgehogs in the U.K. are in trouble and are in the red list now.. helping them has been a wonderful experience, but sad too, for the fact they are in such decline. I like to think tho I’ve made a small difference. A few years ago, I got asked if I could take a African Pygmy pet hedgehog, in as the child who’s pet it was had lost interest. I figured I would help, I bought everything it needed, it was obvious that the hedgehog wasn’t being kept in the correct environment. Although she was a sweet nice natured hedgehog.. she had no doubt been handled so came out to call, which made her care easier. I found out I was this hedgehogs third keeper, so it had been passed on three times. So many are simply disregard when people get fed up of them or when they get sick and the owners don’t want the vet bill. Some have been found released in the wild, they really wouldn’t last as they have been bread in captivity and whe cold weather hits they would perish. It’s not right! Humans can be so uncaring! Again these animals shouldn’t be kept as pets, they aren’t good pets, they should be wild, what gives us the right to take and animal from the wild, and keep it caged for the rest of it’s life, many are breeding them in captivity to make money & is ultimately what is the driving force behind these initially being caught and sold. My little African Pygmy was given the best set up I could give her, yet how sad I was that she was in a Vivarium.. most people getting African Pygmy don’t realise they don’t make good pets. Often they can be huffy not easy to handle. They are nocturnal, only coming out at night when mostly we are asleep, in the wild they would cover a mile or two at night in it’s pursuit to forage, or find mates. Then need a certain environment to thrive. We can’t replicate what they need fully, how could we, and seeing a hedgehog run wildly on a wheel through its poop ( yep they poop as they run ) isn’t really fun when you understand that it’s got to be the most boring life for it, it should be free. They need warm temperatures, if they get cold they will have a hibernation attempt ( African pigmies don’t tend to hibernate ) many don’t come out of a situation like that. They get sick because they aren’t getting the right foods or vitamins, and as you say often people give the wrong types. They need live foods, insects, pinky’s etc but it’s got to be given in the correct quantities get it wrong and you cause unbalanced and metabolic bone disease etc, Most new owners won’t understand that they will need an exotic vet, these cost more money than a regular vet and you may have to travel miles to find one who knows about the species of animal you have and you may end up spending thousands in that vet care. I had Spirit, my little rescued APH hedgehog for a couple of years. She died at about 5 which is about the lifespan in captivity. I was heartbroken. But glad she’s free of her caged life now I hope she’s running in Summerlands right now. There is so much I could say about the pet trade. Of course it’s driven by us, we are the ones who buy these creatures, if there was no demand, then I guess keeping exotics would no longer thrive. It’s good for thought tho when you do have an exotic, and really really think, is it fair on the creature we keep for our own selfish wants. Thank you for high lighting the joys of beautiful creatures like Carl, but also looking at the sad side of it too. You only have to look at the creatures that are captured, smuggled, so many of them illegally smuggled & high numbers perish before they even get to where they are going. Then get sold tk people who have no clue. A life of suffering ! Too many animals are now endangered, we have no right to take them, breed them enclose them in small vivs or enclosures for their lives for our own entertainment. They should be wild and free.

[@robyn905]

girl i am so sorry but when you were crying while carl was looking out the window melodramatically @9:01 it made me laugh 😭😭😭 im going to the inferno so sorry

[@brittanik7150]

I love that you can tell you genuinely care about chameleon’s well being. You are such a sweet person! I work at a vet clinic and also love reptiles myself and it’s so sad to be seeing so many people making mistakes with their animals and reptiles because they just don’t do the research and impulse buy. The animals should never have to pay the price of the stupidity of a human but so sadly it happens to often. Thank you for this video! Carl is beautiful by the way!❤️

[@denansa1]

Everything you say is true. Where can I sign?

[@findinghigherself5220]

You’re becoming a beautiful spokesperson for animals Megan, keep going!

[@nataliaanioo]

maybe reptiles but not animals, she literally said she will be getting KFC after filming this.... animals you eat also want to live

[@snail_smoothie2314]

​@nataliaanioo animals doesn't mean all animals, she's better than a lot of people tbh

[@thelovelymshulia]

Your compassion is so beautiful.

[@melmie4505]

I felt the exact same with my dog. Because of the pandemic, I realized how lonely and isolating being trapped at home can be. Not to mention she often spent her time just sleeping, waiting for people to come home. It makes me sad and felt like I neglected my dog for so long. Life of a pet can be so lonely and sad. But all you can do now is love them and try to give them the best life that you can. Be strong for you and ur pet ❤️. Thank you for sharing.

[@lucasramiro4840]

i love you. stay strong. carls certainly loves you and you provide him the best you can

[@kt114]

I’ve wanted to get a chameleon for a long time but I’m not an impulsive person and I do a lot of research on well... everything. I’ve changed my mind about getting one because of videos like this. Thank you for your honesty and for your caring empathic spirit. You seem so sweet.

[@sincerelyshi6909]

♥️ how caring you are when it comes to animals but please don’t beat yourself up for what you didn’t know you are educating yourself now and others in the process. I myself have also learned so much just by watching this video. It definitely showed me we can all be a lot more intentional when dealing with pets or animals after all it is a life we are responsible for!!!

[@superultradan]

Thanks so much for this video...so very helpful and needed. However, don’t beat yourself up too much, you’ve given Carl a fantastic home and seem to do whatever it takes to keep him healthy and happy. Your a good role model of how to prepare before taking on a Chameleon. I believe Carl is right where he wants to be.

[@anetealdermane4179]

Megan! This is one VERY good video! You have no idea how much you are helping nature by posting this video! THANK YOU for honesty! ❤

[@ari-tw5vx]

It's an emotional topic. You did great explaining this. People aren't even knowledgeable about caring for fish. Thanks for sharing and I think you are a great reptile mom ❤ and Carl is so vibrant and beautiful!!

[@xxnyspicexx]

Girl. I was worried the info in this was going to be way off but it was on the money! Great informative video. Chams are an advanced reptile and people should really do tons of research before getting one. Great video!

[@nugzmedallion8929]

How much you love your animals is one of the many reasons why I keep coming back to your channel.