Spock's Sanctuary

Amazing reptile sanctuary. The owners truly care about the well being of each animal. They love to spend time sharing each animals story and answering questions. My kids loved Norman the giant tortoise that free roamed the building. They also have a great selection of gently used aquariums and terrariums for cheap.

What a wonderful experience, the volunteers/staff are knowledgeable and friendly. We could see how much they truly care about the animals and educating visitors. My children loved being able to interact with the snakes and lizards, looking forward to going back

A fun, welcoming, and unique experience in Des Moines! I enjoyed my stop here and got to handle two different reptiles since I came alone. If you come in a group you each get one reptile handling experience. Tons of unique reptiles in very well-maintained habitats. I was also very impressed with their store that included a wide variety of reptile supplies and food. The staff were friendly, helpful, and loaded with knowledge about the critters. Highly recommend to any animal lover in the area. Great to know you are supporting their rescue as well.

Spock’s Sanctuary is a fantastic place for anyone interested in reptiles. The staff are extremely knowledgeable, welcoming, and clearly passionate about what they do. I originally stopped in to learn more about starting a bioactive enclosure, and they went out of their way to educate me and answer my questions. That learning extended into their educational sanctuary, where I had the chance to interact with the reptiles—holding the big snakes while learning about them was an unforgettable experience. It’s obvious how well cared for the animals are, and their well-being is a top priority. Whether you’re looking to pick up supplies for your reptile, learn more about reptiles, or adopt, this is absolutely a place worth visiting—highly recommend!

Cole was incredibly helpful as we worked to learn more about owning a reptile as a pet. He allowed us to explore many options while also sharing feedback on what would be a great option for us. We visited more than once to interact with the animals in their zoo and ask questions. We finally returned with the goal of picking our new pet. We interacted with the bearded dragon and crested geckos available for adoption and found the perfect crested gecko for our family. Cole helped us to find and order an enclosure and responded to messages later when the enclosure arrived damaged and we had to get another. Cole and the Spock’s staff built us a bio active home for our crested gecko and when we arrived to pick up our enclosure and gecko we were amazed by the home they created for him. We brought our new family member home feeling prepared to provide him a new and comfortable environment with all the best care he needs. We are absolutely in love with our crestie and so thankful to Cole and the Spock’s team for helping. I will sing the praises of Spock’s to anyone who will listen as a place to visit and see reptiles, to learn more, or to eventually find a new pet. They are amazing and I’m so happy the Des Moines area has them.