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Reptiles_-_Setting_Up_Your_Practice__Taxonomy__Husbandry-Feb_2025 L1

Preparing Your Hospital

Knowledge Base

  • Emphasizes the importance of preparation for exotic pet care in veterinary practice.

Essential Texts

  • Manual of Exotic Pet Practice by Mark A. Mitchell and Thomas N. Tully Jr. (Third Edition)

  • Current Therapy in Exotic Pet Practice

  • Mader's Reptile and Amphibian Medicine & Surgery by Stephen J. Divers and Scott J. Stahl

  • Blackwell's Five-Minute Veterinary Consult: Reptile and Amphibian

  • Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary by James W. Carpenter

Online Resources for Staff

Veterinary Support Personnel Network (VSPN)

  • Interactive online community for veterinary professionals.

  • Over 37,000 global members from various veterinary specialties.

  • Access to resources, continuing education, and a collaborative environment.

Waiting Room Considerations

  • Design two separate waiting areas for exotic and domestic animals.

  • Offer species-specific brochures and easy-to-read history forms for clients.

  • Use appropriate exotic artwork and information charts to educate clients on pet care.

  • Consider display animals as an educational opportunity while maintaining high standards.

Equipment Needs

General Overview

  • Equipment requirements vary by species and type of veterinary practice.

  • Basic care requires minimal equipment; comprehensive services need specialized tools.

Housing Needs

  • Stainless steel cages are generally less preferred; temperature-controlled environments are necessary.

Diagnostic Equipment

  • Light microscope: Minimum 400 to 1000X magnification.

  • CBC, FNA, and fecal diagnostics: Small volume required.

  • Radiographic equipment: Must manage a range of sizes effectively.

  • Ultrasound and endoscopy: Vital for assessing the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts.

Therapeutics

  • Collaborate with a compounding pharmacy for customized medication concentrations.

  • Flavoured options can facilitate medication administration.

  • Be aware of potential drawbacks in drug distribution and effectiveness.

Taxonomy and Husbandry of Reptiles

Taxonomy Overview

  • Highlights biological similarities among reptile species.

Distribution

  • Reptiles are globally distributed across various habitats.

  • Species counts and classifications are continuously updated (e.g., increasing numbers of lizards, snakes, etc.)

Conditions for Care

Quarantine Measures

  • All newly acquired reptiles require at least 90 days of isolation.

  • Monitor health and eliminate potential aggression before introducing them to residents.

Disinfectants

  • Commonly used disinfectants include quaternary ammonium compounds, chlorhexidine, and household bleach.

  • Use is generally limited due to potential irritants to skin and respiratory systems.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature and Humidity

  • Ideal temperature ranges vary greatly across species (e.g., ideal for Ball Python is 80-92°F).

  • Humidity needs differ: subtropical (70-90%), temperate (60-80%), desert (30-50%).

Lighting Requirements

  • Full-spectrum lighting essential for vitamin D3 production.

  • Placement of lights can impact effectiveness, as UVB rays are filtered through materials.

Enclosure Size

  • Lizards: Size varies with species; generally 2-3X length for side width.

  • Snakes: Minimum length should equal 3/4 of total snake length.

  • Aquatic turtles: Depth and width depend on carapace length, typically requiring 4-5X their size.

Conclusion

  • Equipping a facility for reptile care involves comprehensive knowledge of species-specific needs, proper equipment, and effective care protocols.

  • Understanding and applying taxonomy, husbandry, and environmental considerations are crucial for safeguarding reptile health.