Your name and company name?
Jay Brewer // Prehistoric Pets & The Reptile Zoo
What city do you live in?
Fountain Valley, California
What type of reptile do you breed?
A little bit of everything, but love Reticulated Pythons in every color imaginable.
How long have you been into Reptiles and what got you started?
My wife and I started with a standard pet stop called Pet Country in 1988 and the rest is history! We are celebrating over 30 years in reptiles and 10 years of The Reptile Zoo which has been such an incredible opportunity to meet visitors from around the globe at a facility that is dedicated to the love of all things reptile.
What is the most interesting fact about your species?
Where do I start?! Reptiles are so misrepresented and misunderstood. I love that on a daily basis I get to be part of these negative stereotypes being broken here at The Reptile Zoo; through first time animal interactions or even online by constantly sharing my passion about these creatures. I can’t tell you how many messages I get that say “I hated snakes, but after watching your videos I’m hooked and researching getting my first ball python ect.” Those responses are exactly why I’m here and why I don’t give up on the hard days.
How does your family help with your business?
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been having my girls right next to me every step of the way. My wife Becky and two of my 3 daughters currently work with me every day, but I’m still trying to wrangle the last one into joining us.
What projects are you working on for the future?
After years working on the renovation and expansion of our home base, The Reptile Zoo in Fountain Valley, California I’d love to use what we’ve learned to reproduce the concept in other areas and continue to expand the opportunities for hands-on reptile education. Until then we’ll keep breeding some incredibly cool reticulated pythons and #LivingTheDream with our fans through social media.
What is the most important information you can give a future reptile keeper?
Get educated and get involved. We have an incredible community that is filled with people who are passionate about the tiniest frog to the largest pythons. There is something for everyone and always an opportunity to learn from each other. Instead of using the power of social media to create divides we have the chance to come together on what we all agree on, life is exponentially better with animals especially when that love is shared with those around you!
SIDE NOTE from Laura ???? : this piece just came out and I think it really captured why and how Jay does what he does. Don’t know if it would be helpful for what you’re working on, but thought I would share.
Laura Brewer
Prehistoric Inc. dba Jurassic Parties, The Reptile Zoo, & Prehistoric Pets
18822 Brookhurst Street, Fountain Valley, California 92708 714.500.0571
Check out of websites for more information!
www.TheReptileZoo.com
