When we think of “pets,” the image that often comes to mind is something fluffy and cuddly—a cat, a dog, maybe even a rabbit. But for Hilarie Juls of DMD Exotics, the fascination has always been with the unconventional: snakes, geckos, scorpions, and more.
But what makes these unusual pets so fascinating—and how do you even begin keeping them?
An Unlikely Beginning
Hilarie’s love for animals began early. At just seven years old, he and his younger brother were already raising chickens before moving on to more common pets like birds, dogs, cats, and rabbits. They lived the dream of every child who has asked their parents to take home the little chicks and pets you’d see at the pet store.
That dream took a turn in college when a classmate bought a scorpion from a local pet store. “That moment shifted my interest,” he says, explaining how scorpions eventually led to tarantulas, then leopard geckos, and finally snakes. What began as curiosity quickly grew into a wide collection of uncommon species.
Turning Passion Into a Business Permit
As his collection grew, so did his desire to share the experience of keeping these fascinating creatures. Encouraged by a friend, Hilarie decided to take the next step. He secured a wildlife farm permit from the DENR in 2020—a move that marked the official start of DMD Exotics. Today, Hilarie is a licensed Wildlife Farm Permit holder and a trusted supplier of legal, document-ready exotic pets.
DMD Exotics isn’t just about introducing people to fascinating animals—it’s equally about promoting responsible ownership. Beyond the pets themselves, DMD also offers terrarium accessories and feeders, ensuring that every keeper has what they need for proper husbandry and a thriving setup.
Meet the Scaly, the Feathery, and the Slithery
If you’re venturing into the world of exotics—or already keeping a few—DMD Exotics has plenty to explore. Their lineup includes bearded dragons, leopard geckos, corn snakes, ball pythons, Burmese pythons, reticulated pythons, parrots and small birds, sugar gliders, fish, iguanas, and many more.
“Everything we offer is chosen to help both pets and owners thrive,” adds Hilarie.
Is Going Exotic Worth It?
Compared to cats or dogs, exotic pets demand more meticulous and specialized care. Depending on the species, they may have strict needs for temperature, humidity, or diet. Yet with the right knowledge and husbandry, Hilarie believes caring for these pets can be just as rewarding.
“The most fulfilling part is seeing our pets healthy, active, and thriving in their new homes,” he says. “Knowing we’ve helped create that environment is priceless.”
Beginner’s Guide to Going Exotic
For newcomers, Hilarie recommends starting with beginner-friendly species and preparing well in advance. “Do some research and prepare the enclosure before bringing a pet home,” he advises. “Joining a supportive community also helps a lot.”
He adds that while some people may be intimidated by reptiles at first, education and hands-on experience often shift that perception. For households with kids or other pets, he stresses that it’s possible to keep exotic animals as long as enclosures are secure and interactions are supervised.
The Leopard Gecko Love Story
Among the many creatures he has kept, leopard geckos remain his personal favorite. “They’re docile, easy to handle, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned keepers,” he says. He also recommends them, along with bearded dragons, to enthusiasts seeking pets that are interactive, hardy, and fun to observe.
Interested in seeing these animals for yourself? You can catch DMD Exotics at local pet events in Cebu. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates, care tips, and promotions—or join their community at Exotics Team Cebu Inc. on Facebook.
