Are you considering adopting a reptile? Reptiles are by far the most popular exotic pet out there. A study by iDiv found that bearded dragons, ball pythons and leopard geckos were the most popular. Reptiles have some very specific care needs, though, so you’ll need to pay close attention to your pet’s health and well-being. A Covington, GA vet discusses reptile care below.
Many reptiles have very specific heat, light, and humidity requirements. For instance, some need bathing pools, some need climbing branches, and some need certain types of hides. Do plenty of research on the specific type of reptile you want to adopt. You’ll need to educate yourself on all aspects of your pet’s care, including environmental needs, shedding cycles, bathing/soaking practices, diet, and common illnesses. Reading a few articles or pamphlets is a good start, but that’s really just scratching the surface.
It’s not uncommon for people to underestimate the amount of care reptiles actually need. However, with reptiles, providing a great habitat is half the battle. Ask your vet for advice on the type and size of housing you should get.
Many people like the aesthetics and appeal of having a unique, pretty pet, such as a reptile. However, they are living beings that can feel things like pain, cold, discomfort, and hunger. Be vigilant about your pet’s care! That means staying on top of keeping their habitat clean, monitoring their conditions, and just paying attention to them.
Many reptiles actually do seem to enjoy being held. However, it’s important to know how and when to handle your pet safely. (Tip: you should never handle your reptile by the tail.)
As mentioned above, reptiles need specific conditions. We recommend checking these daily. You’ll also need some high-quality equipment for this.
This may be the simplest one on the list, but it’s still quite important. Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet. Some reptiles carry salmonella!
It’s important to have a good veterinarian that works with reptiles in your corner. This can also be a wonderful source of information on your pet’s health and care needs. Ask lots of questions!
Do you have questions about your pet reptile’s health or care? Contact us, your local Covington, GA animal clinic!
