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.