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Providing Quality Care for your Reptile

Reptile Care

Reptiles encompass many types of species from turtles and tortoises to various lizards and snakes. These are exotic pets, meaning they are basically wild animals even if captive bred and raised. This is compared to our domestic pets such as dogs and cats, which have been selected and bred to live with people over many generations. Although there are many types of reptiles, one thing they have in common is they are all poikilothermous, or cold blooded. This means that they have a variable body temperature which is primarily environmentally determined. This fact is important in keeping reptiles as pets. As the care taker (owner) of a reptile, you must be aware of the environmental and dietary requirements specific for your particular reptile. Reptile pets originate from many parts of the world, but most come from warmer tropical climates. The key is to recreate their ideal environment, probably tropical, in your home here in Northeast Pennsylvania.

There is not one set of recommendations that apply to the care of all reptiles, but we can list general rules of thumb.

  1. Take your newly purchased reptile to Dr. Valese, who is experienced in exotic pet care, for a wellness examination and a stool sample check for internal parasites.
  2. Keep an ample supply of fresh, clean water available. Many reptiles defecate in their water, so frequent water changes will be needed.
  3. Provide some type of daytime heat source and a basking light. Safety concerns are an issue here to avoid burning your reptile.
  4. Maintain proper ambient temperature throughout the day and nighttime.
  5. Provide a light source with UVB exposure.
  6. Offer the proper amount or length of daylight and darkness over the various seasons.
  7. Have a large enough container which is easily cleaned and escape proof.
  8. Provide the proper, specific diet for your reptile.
  9. Keep safe from predators such as dogs and cats.

Many of the health problems we see in our reptile patients involved improper environmental care and/or improper diet. Reptiles are not the easiest pets to care for. They take a lot of commitment on the part of the owner to do their homework prior to the purchase of the reptile so that optimal home care can be provided. Many reptiles are also a source of salmonella, a bacterial infection that can affect people, especially young children. It is important to wash your hands well after handling your reptile. For this reason, reptiles are not well suited as pets for young children.

Thinking of purchasing a reptile, or it's been awhile since your reptile has been examined? Call us today to schedule a post purchase or wellness examination for your reptile.