248: What Animal Control Really Thinks of Reptile Keepers | Brendan Hettinger - AAH
From Animals at Home Network by AAHN
April 8, 2026 · 1h 12m · Episode 248
About this episode
Brendan Hettinger discusses the realities of reptile keeping and the role of animal control in addressing neglect and hoarding cases.
In this episode, I’m joined by Brendan Hettinger, an animal protection officer who has seen the worst cases of reptile keeping firsthand. We break down the dark reality behind reptile rescues, hoarding situations, and how well-intentioned keepers can unintentionally cause serious harm.We also discuss what animal control actually sees, why bad cases shape legislation, and what responsible keepers can do to protect the future of the hobby.⚠️ This episode contains some disturbing content.SHOW NOTES: https://www.animalsathomenetwork.com/248-brendan-hettinger/SPONSORS: Visit The BioDude: https://www.thebiodude.com/ Visit Zoo Med Labs here: https://zoomed.com/JOIN US ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/animalsathomeLINKS FROM THE EPISODE:https://kdvr.com/news/local/114-cats-rescued-some-found-dead-in-arvada-home-owners-face-cruelty-charges/https://www.instagram.com/brendan_hettinger/Photos and Video in Episode:https://www.instagram.com/brendan_hettinger/00:00 – Introduction & warning01:10 – What this episode is about02:05 – Meet Brendan Hettinger04:10 – Early passion for reptiles & zoo experience08:30 – Becoming an animal protection officer12:10 – What animal control actually…
People in this episode
Host: AAH
Guest: Brendan Hettinger
Topics covered
- reptile keeping
- animal control
- reptile rescues
- hoarding situations
- responsible pet ownership
Keywords
- reptile keeping
- animal control
- reptile rescues
- hoarding
- responsible keepers
Sponsors
The BioDude, Zoo Med Labs
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