Reptile and Amphib

Common Reptile Pets

Lizards:

• Iguanas: These large, herbivorous lizards require a specialized diet that includes leafy greens and some fruits. Iguanas need UV lighting to metabolize calcium efficiently and are best kept at a temperature ranging from 80°F to 90°F during the day. They also require a large enclosure with climbing branches and a water source for hydration.

• Bearded Dragons: Friendly and easy to handle, they thrive in an environment that mimics their natural habitat. An omnivorous diet consisting of insects and vegetables is essential, along with access to UVB light and a basking area with temperatures between 95°F and 110°F. Bearded dragons also enjoy social interaction and handling.

• Geckos: Many species, like the leopard gecko, are small and nocturnal, with varied diets that can include insects and fruits. They require a habitat that maintains a consistent temperature gradient and humidity levels, often achieved through a mix of moist and dry substrates. Some species need specific climbing structures.

• Chameleons: Known for their vibrant colors, chameleons depend heavily on humidity and habitat structure. They eat a diet of live insects and require a complex water source, often misting setups, to stay hydrated. A well-planted enclosure with branches and leaves is critical for their well-being.

• Monitors: These are larger lizard species that are often carnivorous. They need ample space to roam and a varied diet that includes whole prey animals. Temperature control is crucial for their health, and they require a secure environment to feel safe.

• Water Dragons: As semi-aquatic reptiles, water dragons need a habitat that includes water for swimming along with high humidity. A basking area with proper heating and dietary needs consisting of insects and vegetables must be provided.

Snakes:

• Boas: Non-venomous constrictors that vary greatly in size, boas typically require mammals as food. Their enclosures must provide sufficient space, and they need hiding spots to feel secure. Humidity and temperature specific to each species are vital for their health.

• Pythons: Similar to boas but can grow much larger, pythons are also non-venomous and primarily fed on rodents. Enclosures should be large with proper temperature gradients and humidity control.

• Kingsnakes: Known for their striking coloration and patterns, kingsnakes are relatively easy to care for and will eat a variety of prey. They thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitats, requiring secure hiding spots.

• Rat Snakes: Non-venomous and effective at rodent control, they require ample space and a diet that primarily consists of rodents. Heating and humidity must be monitored for optimal health.

• Corn Snakes: A popular choice for pet owners, they have a docile temperament and come in a variety of colors. Corn snakes require proper heating, hiding spots, and a diet of rodents for their sustenance.

• Gopher Snakes: Commonly found in the wild, gopher snakes are effective in pest control but need adequate enclosures that mimic their natural environment, complete with temperatures and hiding spots.

Chelonians:

• Box Turtles: These terrestrial turtles require a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources. They must have access to sunlight and a moist substrate for optimal health.

• Red-Eared Sliders: As one of the most popular aquatic turtles, they need a clean water source and areas to bask. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of aquatic plants and protein sources.

• Various Tortoises: Generally long-lived and herbivorous, these creatures require specific habitats that provide both sunlight and shade. They thrive on a diet of fibrous vegetables and access to clean water.

Reptile Husbandry

Housing:

• Terrarium: The size should be adequate for the species; larger is generally better, allowing for movement and behavioral expression. It’s important to create a habitat that offers climbing or digging spaces.

• Cage Furniture: Includes natural elements like logs, rocks, and plants, which facilitate natural behavior. It is beneficial for reptiles to have hiding places and climbing opportunities, mimicking their natural habitats.

• Substrate: Choose materials that are easy to clean and avoid harmful substrates like wood chips or sand which can lead to health problems.

  • Example: indoor carpet/newspaper/butcher paper/hay

Lighting:

• UV Lighting: Full spectrum is vital for reptiles to metabolize nutrients and synthesize Vitamin D. The light should be positioned 18-24 inches from the animal, with bulbs replaced every 6 months to ensure effectiveness.

Heating:

• Provide basking and non-heated areas to allow reptiles to thermoregulate effectively. Avoid hot rocks to prevent burns.

Humidity:

• Humidity levels vary by species and maintaining the correct humidity can often be challenging. Use hygrometers to monitor conditions.

Sanitation:

• Clean cages regularly, with daily waste removal as essential. Handling with gloves is advised to prevent salmonella exposure, and it’s crucial to clean surfaces away from feeding areas.

Feeding Guidelines

• Snakes: All are carnivores, typically fed whole prey such as rodents, and if food is frozen, it must be thawed before feeding.

• Lizards: Diet varies by type; carnivorous lizards require whole prey, while herbivorous lizards need a diet rich in vegetables. Insectivorous species feed on various insects such as mealworms, and omnivores require a combination of foods.

  • Herbivores: dark leafy greens, vegetables

  • Insectivores: meal worms, silk worms, crickets

  • Omnivores: dark leafy greens, and incests

• Chelonians: Aquatic turtles are generally omnivores and need a diet that includes pelagic foods, while tortoises are strictly herbivores and should never be fed meat-based products.

Handling and Restraint

• Snakes: Use towels and gloves for aggressive snakes; always restrain the head to avoid bites and ensure safety for both the handler and the snake.

• Lizards: Careful restraint is crucial to avoid tail dropping and injury; hold around the neck and pelvic area.

• Chelonians: Restrain the head carefully and use gentle pressure. Offering food can encourage curiosity and make handling smoother.

History, Capture, Restraint, and Handling

• Ask the client to bring photos of the animal’s usual enclosure.

• Take a thorough history before conducting a physical exam

Handling Snakes

• Docile snakes: Gently pick up and remove from the cage.

• Aggressive snakes: Use a towel and leather gloves.

  • Place a towel over the snake’s head.

Locate and isolate the head, then restrain it.

• Poisonous or highly aggressive snakes:

• Use a snake hook to pin the head down before grasping it securely.

• Be cautious—improper use of the hook can cause injury.

Handling Snakes (Continued)

• Transporting a snake to the clinic:

• If inside a pillowcase, do not open it immediately.

• Identify the snake species first.

• Locate the head and grasp it from outside the pillowcase.

• Once restrained, use your free hand to reach into the case and secure the head.

• Transfer the head to your free hand, then remove the snake while holding it just behind the head to prevent biting.

• Staffing requirement: One person is needed for every 3 feet of snake length.

Physical Examination of Reptiles

The procedure is similar to that for mammals but adapted for reptiles. Signs to check for include bright, clean eyes, ear health, and the oral cavity. Palpation helps to identify abnormalities in the body, and for chelonians, abnormal shell conditions should be noted.

Assessing Dehydration

Look for signs such as dry mucous membranes, skin lacking elasticity, and sunken eyes. Fluid therapy may be administered via subcutaneous (SQ), intraosseous (IO), or intravenous (IV) methods.

Euthanasia Procedures

Typically involves a barbiturate solution administered through the heart or coelomic cavity, with close monitoring for humane end-of-life care.

Common Diseases

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

Caused by calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, common signs include skeletal deformities, fractures, and tremors. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for recovery.

Emergency Care

Wounds from trauma or burns should be treated similarly to wounds in small mammals, ensuring all care is appropriate to the specific species' requirements.