Clubs

Q: Can anyone recommend joining a turtle and tortoise club?  What are the
   benifits, obligations, etc.  How can I reach any?

Obligations: you pay a membership fee. 
Benefits: Information, information, information. Company. Fun.

Of course, the more actively you participate, the more fun. Most clubs have
regular meetings, which include talks on herp topics and workshops. Most
clubs also publish a newsletter that is part of the membership. Many clubs
are into education and do reptile shows. Some clubs hold swap meets.
You also get advice, help, and support with problem animals. You can
purchase animals and know who they come from, and often you get a better
price, somewhere between wholesale and retail. 

How to Find a Club
==================

There are many clubs, and the list changes a lot. I don't have time
to maintain such a list. 

* There is a club list posted periodically on rec.pets.herp. 
* Check the phone book.
* Ask in a reptile pet store. Clubs often advertise through stores.
* Go to a reptiles show or expo. If they are not put on by the local club
  in the first place, the clubs will often advertise.
* Ask on rec.pets.herp.
* Search the WEB for reptile clubs. More and more of them have their
  own web sites.
* Societies, Veterniarians, Rescue 
Operations 


I am a member of BAARS, the Bay Area Amphibian and Reptile Society. 
Check out the BAARS web page at:

	http://www.baars.org/index.html