Archie's Angels: Reptile Education, Rescue & Rehabilitation

19/06/2024

Help us welcome “Lance-alotl” to Archie’s Angels! Lance came from a loving family who donated all her supplies with her so she could transition to her new surroundings as quickly as possible. Having her favorite hides has certainly helped relieve stress!

Their generous supply donation will help us foster many future axolotls.

Lance is going to the vet on Friday for a wellness exam!

What are some indicators of good health in an axolotl?

✅ belly is about the same width as their head

✅ regular appetite

✅ swimming around with control (not constantly floating uncontrolled, leaning to one side)

✅ gills not curled forward or shrinking

Despite these indicators, it’s important to take every reptile and amphibian for a regular checkup just like a dog or a cat. F***l samples, weight tracking and the trained eye of an exotic veterinarian can reveal a lot of information.

In foster care, we are working on helping Lance grow her gills through consistent water quality. This is something that should improve over time.

**petology

17/06/2024

HERPETOLOGY DEFINITION PREORDERS ARE OPEN! 🐢🐍

Preorder HERE: http://archiesangels.bigcartel.com/product/h**petology-definition-t-shirt-preorder

Tired of constantly explaining what h**petology is? Save precious time and wear this for everyone to see! (Final design will not have watermark) Just think, with all the time you save you’ll have time to get another reptile 👀

Your order benefits the reptiles and amphibians at Archie’s Angels: Reptile Education, Rescue & Rehabilitation, a 501(c)(3) non profit organization in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Each item will be hand printed with care in Appleton, Wisconsin at Amano Print House and shipped to your door by our friendly volunteers!

Don’t see your size? Email us and we’ll see what we can do! [email protected]

PRICE INCLUDES U.S. SHIPPING!

*PREORDERS CLOSE AUGUST 1, 2024, AND SHIRTS SHIP SHORTLY AFTER - YOU WILL RECEIVE A SHIPPING NOTIFICATION*

Images shown are mockups - final product will vary slightly.

Thank you for preordering. The preorder system helps us support local businesses and provide you with a higher quality product that’s made to LAST - just like our love for reptiles!

**petology

14/06/2024

Here is more information of the changes to lighting regulations - and how you can help! Big thank you to our friends at USARK - United States Association of Reptile Keepers for keeping their finger on the pulse of this situation.

Please consider donating to USARK. They’re on your side and have boots on the ground doing work every day that helps reptile keepers.

Read more at www.usark.org/24doe

In 2022, the Department of Energy (“Department”) passed a regulation that banned certain incandescent light bulbs. Light bulbs are deemed inefficient if they do not emit a certain amount of lumens per watt. Specifically, the rule prohibits the sale of “general service lamps” (GSLs) that do not meet a minimum efficacy standard of 45 lumens per watt (lm/W). This was meant to transition from less efficient bulbs to more efficient lighting, like LED bulbs.

Reptile (and bird) lighting is a specialty item and is not used for general-purpose lighting in homes and businesses. However, certain bulbs were reviewed solely on how many lumens they produced per watt. H**p keepers know that halogen and basking bulbs are not used in household lamps for general lighting.

At least one lighting manufacturer has been sharing valuable data with the Department, and changes to this ban are being sought. The Department shows promising signs of being reasonable regarding the concerns expressed with its openness to communications from lighting manufacturers and experts such as veterinarians, zookeepers, and professional h**petologists. The Department’s willingness to engage with stakeholders is welcome and appreciated. A review has been requested, and we remain hopeful that reason will prevail.

While most specialty lighting for reptiles and amphibians has not been included in this ban, many commonly used bulbs have been, including the list below. Bulbs similar to those below, no matter the company, fall under this ban and will be pulled from the market if the Department does not change its standing.

An effort to reverse this decision seems to be moving positively with the Department. Currently, we are encouraging legitimate experts and concerned h**p keepers to contact the Department. Experts, please send any data supporting the need for the types of bulbs below for animal welfare and sound husbandry. The Department needs to be provided with information.

Remember to be civil and professional! Acting otherwise will only hurt our cause. You can provide science and input about your animal welfare concerns to this email address: [email protected]

List of bulbs currently subject to the ban by the Department (some, but possibly not all):

basking spot lamps under 125W
daylight bulbs under 125W
halogen lamps under 125W
UVB compact fluorescent lamps
UVA compact fluorescent lamps

Below is a basic sample message.

Please edit it and feel free to expand. Be polite! You can easily edit to include other concerns, such as if you own birds.
Please do not just copy and paste. A bunch of the exact same message is not as effective as personalized emails.

email address: [email protected]

Department of Energy,

As a responsible reptile owner, I am very troubled after learning that specialty light bulbs that I use to keep my pets healthy will be banned. The ban on certain basking, heat, and UVA/UVB bulbs will create extreme animal welfare issues. Pet reptiles and birds, animals in zoos and conservation programs, and many others will suffer. Please listen to the experts who have contacted you regarding this issue. These bulbs are not used for general lighting and are needed to keep most reptiles healthy. Several million American homes have pet reptiles.

I support and appreciate the Department’s work to improve our energy efficiency and help the environment. These bulbs for reptiles should not be included in the ban or considered GSLs, as they are used only for specialized applications and not for everyday lighting applications. I ask that you do what is right for the animals and for good American pet owners by exempting these specialty light bulbs. Have a good day.

YOUR NAME

(If you are a professional in an animal-related field, please include your job or professional title. This includes veterinarians, biologists, zookeepers, researchers, professors/teachers, h**petologists, conservationists, etc.)

14/06/2024

11/06/2024

BBC Wildlife Magazine if black mamba have a wingspan and can fly now, consider us officially terrified.

09/06/2024

Pepper the golden tegu is the definition of a SURVIVOR. Although most of her history prior to Archie's remains a mystery, one factor was for certain: she did not trust people. Her fosters were very patient and understanding of her boundaries, while still helping her learn to trust again.

While Pepper is still a force to be reckoned with, she is doing much better, healthy and thriving in foster care. She has been with Archie’s over a year. Pepper needs an experienced keeper who will respect her boundaries and patiently socialize her. She is the spiciest "Ghost Pepper" we know!

It is preferred for Pepper to go to an accredited zoo or non-profit organization. Adoption fees will be waved for such organizations. Experienced keepers will be considered. Those seeking to breed should not apply.

Help us send out the bat signal - or, tegu signal! Spread the word so we can find the perfect place for Pepper 🌶️🦎

Read about our adoption process and apply HERE: https://www.angelsforarchie.org/adopt

03/06/2024

Transparency is important to us. We want you to be confident each and every time you donate, knowing that we make the most of every dollar. We’ve done our homework and obtained the Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid. This will help you have handy access to all the nitty-gritty details if you want them! 📈

Check us out our HERE: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/shared/f8bb148d-88a6-4f39-a127-e1e6ed5fda50

Have you recently learned about us through Candid? Learn about our mission and help us change the world for pet reptiles and amphibians through education, rescue, and rehabilitation by checking out our website: www.angelsforarchie.org

01/06/2024

These two are still looking for the perfect home 🥺

31/05/2024

💡LIGHTING REGULATION CHANGES - HOW DOES THIS EFFECT REPTILE KEEPERS?💡

The U.S. Department of Energy determined several Zoo Med lighting products to be considered “General Service Lamps” that do not meet efficacy standards.

PLEASE NOTE that efficacy in the lighting industry means how EFFICIENT the light is, not necessarily how EFFECTIVE. We still highly recommend Repti-Sun’s line of linear UVB products, Repti Basking Spot Lamps, and ReptiTuff Splashproof Halogens.

As stated in Zoo Med’s letter, they had to cease production of the products listed below. You may notice your go-to lights being out of stock.

Zoo Med is working with the Department of Energy to find a way forward so their products can continue to reach reptile keepers.

WHAT IF I CAN’T FIND THE LIGHT BULB I NEED❓

- Check retailers online. Some existing stock may still be available!

- Check your lamp hood’s wattage rating. Hardware stores sell halogen flood lights that can keep your reptile nice and warm. Make sure the wattage is rated for your lamp hood.

Remember to keep heat lights on a dimmer as needed and check ambient temperatures frequently, including surface temp of basking spots. ✅

- If you need UVB brand alternatives, Arcadia lighting is an excellent option! Be careful to check the size of your Repti-Sun hood and match it to the appropriate Arcadia bulb size.

30/05/2024

Archie’s Angels is now on NetGiver! NetGiver is powered by credit unions, including Wisconsin’s own Community First Credit Union. 🏦

NetGiver enables you to give fee-free both ways by covering the process costs of transactions. There are no fees for you to give, and no fees for charities to receive. It truly makes the most of your donation.

Archie’s Angels, Inc. is 100% volunteer run. Your donation doesn’t go towards salaries - it pays for veterinary care, medications, rehabilitation, supplements, enclosures, fundraising and educational supplies, and more. With NetGiver, now we can also avoid the processing fees that often come with online giving!

You don’t need to be a credit union member to give. Check it out HERE: https://donate.netgiverapp.com/nonprofits/7459821/give

29/05/2024

Change the world for countless reptiles and amphibians for years to come by directing your Qualified Charitable Distribution “QCD” to Archie’s Angels!

WHAT IS A QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION (“QCD”)?

1. A QCD is a direct transfer of assets from your IRA to an eligible charity.

2. In 2024, you can make a QCD of up to $105,000.00 per person, since IRAs are held individually.

WHO CAN MAKE A QCD?

1. QCDs can only be made by eligible IRA holders 70 ½ and older.

2. Eligible IRAs include SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, traditional IRAs and inherited IRAs. Please note 401(k)s are not eligible for QCD.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A QCD?

It is best to explore the potential benefits of a QCD for your particular situation by discussing with your tax advisor, wealth management professional and/or attorney. Here are a few ways you may benefit:

1. QCDs made via direct transfer to an eligible charity avoid taxation as income.

2. QCDs can potentially help you reduce your tax bracket.

3. A QCD can help you reach your required minimum distribution (“RMD”).

4. QCDs can help you avoid paying higher Medicare premiums by reducing your modified adjusted gross income (“MAGI”).

I’M READY! I WANT TO MAKE MY QCD TO ARCHIE’S ANGELS, INC.!

Thank you for your generosity! Please contact your IRA advisor and request to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution to Archie’s Angels, Inc., Tax ID number 84-5020328. Physical QCD checks can be mailed to:

Archie’s Angels, Inc.
P.O. Box 5712
De Pere, WI 54115

For direct transfers, please contact our Treasurer, Katrina Schlafer, for routing instructions at (920) 249 - 6051 or email us at [email protected].

To learn more about QCDs, please visit https://www.irs.gov/publications/p590b

DISCLAIMER:
The material presented in this post and on www.angelsfoarchie.org is not given as legal or tax advice. Contact your tax advisor, attorney and/or wealth management professional to review potential tax obligations and understand the nuances of your situation.

28/05/2024

we would be honored to have your nomination in the comments of Scheels’post 😍

SCHEELS is a destination sporting goods store with 33 locations in the U.S.A.

28/05/2024

Has your child ever wanted to hug a Komodo Dragon? A Tree Frog? How about a Ball Python? Does your child asking for a pet snake fill you with dread and visions of mice dancing in your dreams? Fear Not! We’ve turned the not-so-huggable into huggable, squishable, and educational friends!

Your child can experience the excitement of “adopting” a new friend through our Adopt-a-Plush series! The best part is, there’s no cleanup or feeding required. Each Adopt-a-Plush arrives in a 100% colorable white critter carrier with handles, so they can go on adventures with your child anywhere and everywhere. You’ll also receive an adoption certificate to celebrate your child’s new pet. Each box includes a NatGeo Kids book, so your child can learn about their new pet. Most importantly of course, is the high-quality Wild Republic plush! Wild Republic supports conservation efforts and uses recycled materials as much as possible, so you can feel extra good about your purchase.

Quantities are limited! Check out all the details at our online store:

https://archiesangels.bigcartel.com

27/05/2024

Today, we are wrapping up our series exploring the “why” behind why our officers and Board of Directors got started with Archie’s Angels, so you can get to know the folks behind the rescue! 🐢

My “WHY” - Jacob Re*****on, Officer

“I have always been fascinated by reptiles and how different they were to any other animal. For the longest time I was never allowed to have one as my mother was not a fan of reptiles in the slightest. I am happy to report that she eventually came around and I was allowed to have my first reptile! My first reptile was a corn snake. As you can guess, it has spiraled from there and now I have snakes, tortoises, as well as small and big lizards! My mom now loves all of them and has even joined Archie’s Angels as a volunteer. I am so thankful for her support of my passion and look forward to helping our community learn about reptiles and learn to love them like we do!”

- Jacob Re*****on, Officer

24/05/2024

BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING!

We worked with Rachel at In All Things Creative to brainstorm new branding, including a new logo! You will see this update rollout this weekend. It’s the same Archie’s Angels but with a new look! You’ll still be able to find our classic clawprint wherever you look, so we’re still easy to find.

Be sure to follow so you don’t miss our new merch drop and exclusive discount code 👀

21/05/2024

There’s two new handsome fellas at Archie’s looking for forever homes! Check out their adoption cards below to learn more.

Both Warrior and Lil Bean have been seen by Dr. Wolfe and received the “all clear!” Warrior was successfully dewormed and Lil Bean was healthy as a horse right off the bat! 🐍

Ready to apply? Read about our adoption process and apply here: https://www.angelsforarchie.org/adopt

Got a question? Drop it below or email us at [email protected].

21/05/2024

This week, we’re exploring the WHY behind why our Board of Directors got started with Archie’s Angels, so you can get to know the folks behind the rescue! 🐢

My “WHY” - Raija Hansen, President & Founder:

“In summer 2017, a Facebook post made its way across Wisconsin reptile groups, seeking to rehome a savannah monitor (Varanus exanthematicus). After an excessive number of tags, shares, and reposts, my mom and I reached out to the owner to see how we could help.
​
We welcomed Archie the Savannah Monitor into our home as soon as we could. Deemed "aggressive and non-handleable" by his previous home, I did not expect Archie to make a presence at outreach events through a local society at the time. A change in husbandry quickly moved Archie's demeanor for the better, revealing his true personality as a big, sociable lizard.
​
Inflicted with numerous health issues, Archie unfortunately met his early fate on March 24, 2018, having passed away in the loving embrace of our family. Only three years old at the time of his passing, this cut his life to a fraction of what it should have been.

When we first got Archie, he weighed a hefty 13 lbs, twice as much as his ideal weight. Due to a poor diet and inadequate space to exercise, he had no outlet to work off the excess fat. His body was forced to grow at an incredible rate, making him far larger than any other 3-year-old savannah monitor.

​Having been fed a strict diet of chicken gizzards for a majority of his life, Archie's poor eating habits ultimately ended his life. A necropsy was performed, indicating precisely what damage had been done.
​
Archie suffered from renal and visceral gout, a disease of the kidneys. This led to cardiovascular disease. His organs were surrounded by tophi (a deposit of crystalline uric acid and other substances at the surface of joints, in skin or cartilage) and excessive amounts of fat. This, topped with an underdeveloped immune system, all factored into why he passed at such a young age.

Savannah monitors are insectivores, meaning that their diet primarily consists of insect protein. Archie's previous owner fed him 10 lbs of chicken gizzards every week, and in turn, his body simply could not process that. Fat accumulated in large amounts, pushing organs up and forward. This made Archie's breathing labored and difficult for him to move.

Pictured here are two radiographs (x-rays) in the DV (dorsal-ventral) view; each animal is laying on their belly. On the left, we have Archie. On the right is Osiris, a savannah monitor of the same age as Archie upon his passing. The difference in diet is significant - whereas Archie was fed 10lbs of chicken gizzards per week by his previous home, Osiris has been given a steady diet of insects his entire life. The white portions on either side of the coelomic cavity ("abdomen") in these radiographs showcase the fat pads of a savannah monitor, most notable in Archie.

In memory of Archie, I started Archie’s Angels to use his story to educate about proper h**petological husbandry. Education is knowledge, and knowledge is the key to a happy animal. By properly informing others before they receive a new pet, we can prevent mistreatment and aid in the animal's happiness.

We want these animals to do more than just survive - we want them to thrive.”

- Raija Hansen, President & Founder

You can learn even more about our mission at www.angelsforarchie.org.

20/05/2024

‼️ASSISTANCE NEEDED‼️

Please read below and donate or share to help awareness!

18/05/2024

It’s time for Fun in the Sun at the Humane Society of Jefferson County’s Furry Friends 5k! Dante is making the most of the sunbeams (and the attentions as always). Come by and help us fundraise for a great cause, get some fresh air, and meet our scaly ambassadors!

18/05/2024

This week, we’re exploring the WHY behind why our Board of Directors got started with Archie’s Angels, so you can get to know the folks behind the rescue! 🦎

MY “WHY” - Katrina Schlafer, Treasurer:

“The topic of getting reptiles for children can be sensitive. There are many factors that need to be considered for maximum success, health of the animal, and enjoyment for the child.

At Archie’s, we advocate for this decision being made with the parent understanding they will be the primary caregiver. In an ideal situation, the parent will be as excited if not more excited about the animal. This lends itself to lifelong care and love regardless of the child’s changes in interest (which are normal for growing, learning children).

As a child, I desperately wanted a reptile. Any reptile. I thought owning a reptile would be so cool. I saved up Christmas money and begged my parents to let me get one. I had $100. I imagined a scaly friend I could take with me around the house and sit and watch tv with.

Fast forward to the big box pet store. My money did not go far. I got a green anole and mesh arboreal enclosure kit. I was so excited. Little did I know, I unfortunately had not picked a pet that fit my expectations and imagination.

Green anoles are a very hands-off pet. They are territorial and do not like to be handled. They drop their tails when stressed. The crickets creeped me out. The mesh arboreal kit I got did not maintain humidity well.

These problems sapped the joy out of reptile ownership for me. I imagined a friend I could hold and hang out with. That is just not how green anoles are. She dropped her tail the second time I tried to hold her.

As I lost interest, my mother became the person who cared for my anole. She braved the crickets and did her best to keep my anole happy and healthy. Green anoles live 5 years on average. Mine passed away at the age of 2.

Why am I telling you this? This is my “why”. This is why I’ve dedicated myself to Archie’s Angels’ mission. Here’s why our mission could have prevented my situation as a kid:

1. MANAGING EXPECTATIONS

- ask your child what they’re imagining they’ll do with the pet they want. Are they imaging cuddling? Walks? Sitting on their shoulder? What size animal are they picturing?

- Compare the child’s thoughts with the animal they say they want. See if those ideas mesh. In my situation, my parents would’ve found out quickly that green anoles are far from cuddly.

2. RESEARCH (by parent and child)

- if you’ve found that the animal your child wants matches with their desired traits, it’s time to research in depth. Compare multiple sources. Find husbandry information, lifespan, recommended enclosure types and sizes, diet, and supplement needs.

- Find an exotic vet near you.

- A hard question to consider is the lifespan of the animal. Most reptiles will live 15+ years. With college attendance being at age 18, this leaves a big gap. Where will the animal go during this time? This is where the parent loving the animal and being as excited about it comes in. The animal will always have a place to be and a loving friend regardless of the child’s college plans.

3. COST ANALYSIS

- what is the startup cost to get this animal?

- How much is an office visit with my local exotic vet? Are you willing to pay that expense for a yearly visit?

- What is the recurring cost for this animal? That includes food, supplements, light bulbs, heat bulbs, yearly checkups, etc.

4. FAMILY MEETING

- now that you’ve got all the data, sit down with your child and discuss it. If they’re old enough to save up for the startup cost, discuss how much. Reiterate the animal’s traits, including lifespan.

5. CONSIDER ADOPTION!

- when you adopt a reptile, you’re helping a friend in need find a new home.

- You have the benefit of the rescue’s knowledge and resources for any questions you have!

- You can adopt an older animal! For example, baby bearded dragons can be a handful. They eat lots and lots of crickets every day and are very fragile. Older dragons eat bugs a few times a week.

It is important to acknowledge our mistakes and work to improve the future for other reptiles. Even though I was a child, I feel responsible for lacking the patience and knowledge to provide proper care for my anole. Knowledge and passion are the keys to successful reptile care. If I’d had a reptile I could hold, and watch tv with, I probably would have been more determined to feed it myself, research its care, and save up the extra money for the reptile I truly wanted.

Nysuuki was a green anole from a big box pet store. She was small and lived a short life. However, as an adult, she’s left a big impact on my life. I’m dedicated to preventing situations like hers and helping improve existing ones.

- Katrina S., Treasurer

Education is knowledge, and knowledge is the key to a happy animal.

Learn more about our mission at www.angelsforarchie.org.

15/05/2024

Meet Oscar, our resident Bearded Dragon ambassador! 🐉

Oscar came into Archie’s Angels as a severe MBD case surrender. MBD, known as Metabolic Bone Disease is a condition caused from poor nutrition, low calcium and vitamins, and lack of UVB light. This is one of the most common conditions in reptiles and can and should be prevented by ensuring research on the diet and UVB light requirements for the specific animals you keep.

Why is MBD such a bad disease?

MBD can cause improper muscle and bone structure which leads to minimal muscle in the limbs, deformed skull and bone structures, increased bone fracture risks, potential defecation and urination issues, and difficulty with mobility.

In Oscar’s case, it has caused an extreme case of muscle and bones not forming properly. We fondly refer to this as Oscar’s ‘Peanut Butter Legs’ due to his legs being “mushy”, and unable to properly walk on them. Animals with severe MBD will need a lifetime of specialized care and support. This may include additional UVB and vitamins, and having to provide an enclosure that is more fall proof than a typical enclosure for the species. It is recommended to provide physical therapy as well to try to increase the little muscle that they have to help with basic movement and long term quality of life benefits.

If you are concerned your reptile may be showing signs of MBD, it’s important to get to a vet for evaluation. Not sure where to find an exotic vet? E-mail us at [email protected] for help finding an exotic vet near you!

13/05/2024

*Please note there are photos of fresh sutures below, beware if you’re squeamish!*

This is Haydes the bearded dragon. He was relinquished to us from a private owner who loved him very much, and with a need to further pursue diagnostics & surgical options, we were contacted to take him in & see what we could do. His previous owner brought him into their exotic vet for routine care upon noticing an issue with his eye, leaving us with an extensive medical record to work from so we could get Haydes the care he needed.

On Friday, May 10th, Haydes was brought in to the Animal Hospital of De Pere to undergo physical examination & radiographs to review possible removal of a large, debilitating growth on the orbital region of his head. It was determined that the growth was within his orbital cavity & a globe was unable to be located at the time of the radiographs. Due to quality of life & confirmation that, without removal, this would lead to death, surgery was planned immediately.

Haydes underwent surgery to remove the growth at 1:30PM. The skin encapsulating the large growth was opened & the growth was observed to be a very large, fatty, non-vascular tumor. It was successfully removed at 2:00PM and Dr. Wolfe confirmed his globe could not be saved.

Surgery was successful and the remaining skin was trimmed down & sutured together. It was decided to allow a month for recovery before performing an additional set of radiographs to determine if a second surgery would be necessary.

Haydes awoke from anesthesia & continued to warm up & recover. Haydes was closely monitored visually & by live-view camera.
Recovery took a turn at approximately 5:30PM where breathing irregularities were observed. Our team began to work at stimulating respirations, ensuring airways were clean & open with intervals of holding the mouth agape whilst stimulating his toes with pressure to elicit a response.

At 6:00PM shallow breaths & pulse were no longer observed, so our team began to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This continued for 20 minutes with guidance from his veterinarian.

At 6:20PM, it was confirmed that Haydes was not able to be resuscitated & efforts were discontinued.

This has been a very large emotional hit on everyone involved. There was no moment that effort had not been at 100% to try and provide the highest chance of survival. We are all deeply saddened by this loss.

Recovery is the hardest part of the process for exotics. His foster team and Dr. Wolfe worked tirelessly through the night to monitor Haydes and ensure he maintained appropriate temperatures & hydration post-op. While stories like this are heartbreaking, it is important to showcase the not-so-pretty side of rescue. We are honored to have such an amazing medical team behind us; without them, we would not be able to provide the care we do. While Haydes' time was short with us, his story can inspire many to learn about amazing reptiles like him.

If you would like to support Haydes' story, Dr. Wolfe and her medical team, you can make a monetary donation to Animal Hospital of De Pere, mentioning Archie’s Angels, or donate directly through the Archie's Angels donation portal. Your support helps us provide care for animals like Haydes. As always, thank you from all of us at Archie's Angels.