The World Of Exotic Animals & Unusual Pets

Header image collage of four of Holly’s exotic pets with a faded overlay. Centred text on the photo reads: “Meet the Misunderstood: Inside the World of Unusual Pets.”

Studio pet photoshoot image of Holly holding her bearded dragon and smiling at it. Below, text reads: “Hello, I’m Holly!” and beside it: “Holly’s world is full of scales, shells, and surprises. With over 20 exotic pets and a soft spot for the misunderstood, she’s not your average animal lover. A familiar face at Zen Shots, Holly’s passion shines through in every visit. But how did it all begin? Let’s dive into her journey into the wild and wonderful world of exotic pets.”

Q: How did you get into having more exotic animals and pets?

A: I got into exotics as I always loved reptiles, we rescued our first dragon, Norman, then a rescue found Woody in a garden and it just spiralled from there. All are rehomes except Preston who we bought when Norman passed away. The invertebrates came when my son, Adam had a thing for bugs, we went to our first Invert Show and came home with Gwen the jumping spider and Sammy X the Giant African Mantis. Since that day, I love the misunderstood.

Q: Can you tell us what pets you have and what their names are?

ullet-point list of Holly’s exotic animals and creatures: Loaf (Banana pastel ball python), Bagel (Banana cinnamon ball python), Theo (Normal pastel ball python), Ozzy (Normal ball python), Preston (Bearded dragon), Bink (Leopard gecko), Pissy (Female hognose snake), Neville (Male hognose snake), Woody (Corn snake), Gandalf (King snake), Quasimodo (Herman’s tortoise), Claude and Clyde (Giant African land snails), 20 tarantulas including Venom, Karen, Freddie, Alice; 3 scorpions: Stabba, Jabba, Chopper; Peeping Tom (Giraffe mantis); Dequavious Johnson 1st (Armoured cricket); Sungaya (Stick insects); Fella (Dog); GG (Cat); Mama Sniff (Cat).

Q: Was there one that started it all?

A: So Norman started using off on reptiles, he was badly cared for, underground, half a tail but we loved him. Gwen our first spider made me realise how spiders are completely misjudged and are actually quite fascinating the more you research and watch.

Q: Do they each have their own personalities? Any funny or surprising traits?

A: Every single pet is different l, including the tarantulas. They all have different personalities. Gandalf and Preston choose violence daily, whereas Bink and Loaf are so laid back and chilled.

Pictured left to right: Bink, Preston, Loaf, Quasimodo, Bagel, Claude & Clyde.

Q: What would you say is the most misunderstood thing about your exotic animals and pets?

A: Personally all of my exotic animals and pets are misunderstood, spiders are not that scary, neither are snakes. If you have the respect then you can handle them safely and confidently. In turn have a good relationship. They are not like our Furry pets, they don't have feelings towards you and handling should be based on choice and not because you want to as its not necessary.

Q: What do you love most about being a multi-species pet parent?

A: I adore having all these guys to look after and try my best. It's a great talking point and I'm proud of my exotic care, albeit expensive.

Q: How did you find your Zen Shots experience? What was your favourite part?

A: The best thing about Zen Shots is the people working there, very professional, very friendly and easy to talk to. It's always nice to show off your unusual animals too. We had a blast and I'd do it all over again.