AITA for calling out a coworker about his pets?

A workplace conversation about pets quickly turned into a clash of expertise and personality. A 22‑year‑old woman, a self-proclaimed reptile nerd, recounts how she confronted a coworker—whom she calls “Phony Fred”—about his wild claims regarding his exotic pets.

When he insisted that a skink was a “BIG ASS lizard” and even lumped lizards together with snakes and amphibians, she couldn’t hold back her frustration. Her blunt call-out left him visibly stumped and mumbled to himself. Now she wonders if her harsh words were justified or if she should have just let it go.

‘AITA for calling out a coworker about his pets?’

Experts in workplace communication and animal care emphasize that when someone with specialized knowledge encounters blatant misinformation—especially about something as important as pet care—assertive correction can be both necessary and justified.

According to relationship expert Dr. John Gottman, “Clear, direct communication is essential, particularly when it comes to factual matters that affect well-being. When someone is confidently spreading incorrect information, stepping in to set the record straight is not only responsible but also protects everyone involved.”

In this situation, the narrator, a seasoned reptile enthusiast, was faced with her coworker’s erroneous claims about his pets. When he insisted that a skink was a “big ass lizard” and then conflated lizards with snakes and amphibians, she drew on her extensive knowledge to correct him—explaining that blue‑tongued skinks only grow to about 24 inches and that lizards and snakes are distinct species with different care requirements.

Although her delivery was blunt, experts argue that such intervention is warranted when misinformation could lead to improper pet care. It’s not about personal animosity; it’s about ensuring that accurate information is shared, especially in a professional setting where credibility matters.

Here’s how people reacted to the post:

Many community members agree that if you have specialized knowledge, it’s not unreasonable to correct someone’s blatant errors—especially when it involves the wellbeing of animals. One commenter wrote, “If he’s misinforming others about pet care, a direct correction is warranted.”

Others, however, caution that delivering the message with a bit more tact might have avoided unnecessary conflict. Still, a majority seem to side with the idea that protecting the animals—and ensuring factual accuracy—is more important than saving face.