The gig: Rescue and rehabilitate reptiles confiscated by law enforcement.
The expert: Russell Johnson, President, Phoenix Herpetological Society
The best part: "Dispelling myths and fears," says Johnson. When he isn't out wrangling alligators or vaccinating rattlesnakes, he teaches kids to respect their scaly friends.
Getting there: Volunteer to work with snakes at a zoo or animal shelter. Then study exotic animals at veterinary school.
Cool fact: Having a little reptile as a pet can be a big responsibility. A cute 12-inch-long crocodile can grow to 8 feet and live 30 years.