The Catherine Violet Hubbard Foundation (CVHF) demystified the myths and fears surrounding cold-blooded creatures during its Not So Spooky Anymore event for all ages at Edmond Town Hall on October 23.

Riverside Reptiles Education Center Educator Tyler Burt brought ambassador reptiles with him, including a box turtle and a European legless lizard. The crowd got an up-close look at the animals while learning what makes each of them special.

“No matter how scaly or slithery they might look on the outside, every animal deserves the love and respect of humankind,” CVHF promoted on its website.

The public was also invited to meet adoptable animals with Boomer’s Best Buddies Rescue.

Director Jen Kanaitis and volunteer Loreta Kepanis brought short haired American guinea pigs Will, Midnight, and Spice, who are 8-month-old siblings.

Also, on-site and available for adoption was a 1-year-old rat named Minnie who enjoyed perching on Kanaitis’s shoulder. Minnie is bonded with fellow rat Pebbles, and they are looking for a home together.

For more information about Boomer’s Best Buddies Rescue in Andover, e-mail boomersbestbuddies@gmail.com and visit boomersbestbuddies.com.

To learn more about Riverside Reptiles Education Center, 132 South Road in Enfield, call 860-207-9335 and visit riversidereptileseducationcenter.com.

Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.