SNAKES are not traditionally considered a popular pet, but the Roma Pet Expo showed times are certainly changing.

Snake breeder Michael Maloney said snakes were a misunderstood creature.

"They are really nice and I have always been into them," he said.

Scales and Tails magazine owner Mahalia Logan could not agree more.

"We are trying to educate people that snakes are not evil and they are just as scared as us most of the time," she said.

She said her favourite pet was a bearded dragon.

"Bearded dragons make an excellent first pet for kids," she said.

"They are friendly and an awesome pet all round."

The expo was held at Roma Pet Supplies on Spencer St and there were animals of all varieties, including puppies, birds and fish.

Roma Pet Supplies owner Cyril Peet said it was a good family day out.

"It's all about educating and showing them what's available," he said.

Fish Master Marvellous owner Marvel Paiva said the event ran every year on the second Sunday in September.

"This has been the best one yet," he said.

He said the event aimed to open people's eyes to the natural world, which could have all sorts of benefits.

"The enrichment one can get from just being around animals can be a form of diversional therapy."