When Saigon youngsters bring out their pet reptiles

Iguanas live in the tropical regions of Central and South America. They cost pet owners VND1-20 million ($43 – 859). "They are intelligent and easy to train and care for," the animal owner in the picture said.

Every two months hundreds of pet reptile owners meet in cafes in HCMC, sharing their rearing experiences and showing off their animals.

"Instead of wasting time playing games, I tend a reptile as a healthy and fun activity and I teach my kid about loving animals," Tran Thanh Nam, a resident of District 9, told VnExpress.

Iguanas mature quite quickly. They can reach a length of 150 cm from head to tail at two years and weigh more than 10 kilograms. Males are longer and bigger than females. If properly cared for, they can live for 15 to 20 years.

An iguana’s appeal as a pet is judged based on certain factors like round cheekbones, big round bibs, raised back spines, and so on.

These lizards are not picky eaters. They can eat virtually anything natural but often prefer green vegetables, pumpkin and fruits.

Many people were curious to see this young man carrying an iguana on the pedestrians-only section of Nguyen Hue Street.

Pythons, other snakes, turtles, and other creatures are also potential pets for young people. 

Y Nhi (left) said: "At first when we raised them, our family was not approving because everyone was afraid and also concerned about possible negative spiritual impacts they might have on the family. But after a while they saw how gentle and how they help the whole family release stress, and now everyone loves to have the snake around."

Pham Hong Hai of District 2 pets an owl for relaxation.