West Toowoomba Vet Surgery 
                       Caring for Pets... and people too

SOME BASIC POINTERS FOR REPTILE OWNERS

SELECTING A HEALTHY REPTILE

 

  • Buy from a reputable source, such as a well-established breeder or a reptile specialty shop Avoid pet stores if possible.

 

  • Only buy reptiles that were born in captivity.

 

  • Do not buy hatchlings or very small babies. They are very delicate and can be difficult to care for.

 

  • Choose a reptile that is active and alert. If possible, watch the animal as it is fed. If that is not possible, ask to see its records to determine when it was fed and whether it is eating. Do not buy from that source if such records are missing or you are not allowed to observe the reptile being fed.

 

  • Make sure the reptile has been housed properly and fed the proper diet. A bad start in life can cause health problems later on. Reptiles can live for long periods under less than ideal conditions. Even if the reptile is rehabilitated, however, renal failure, bone or other growth deformities, or other ailments may arise later in life.

 

STEPS TO PREVENT DISEASE TRANSMISSION TO PEOPLE

 
Many reptiles carry bacteria, especially Salmonella, that can cause severe disease in people. It is important to keep this in mind when you, your family, and your friends are handling reptiles. Things you can do to minimise the transmssion of disease from reptiles to people include:

  • Buy only captive bred reptiles.
  • Wash your hands with a disinfectant after handling a reptile or its cage or cage accessories.
  • Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning the cage.
  • Do not kiss a reptile or let it "kiss" you.
  • Do not clean cage furnishings or prepare food items in your bathtub or kitchen sink.
  • If bitten or scratched by a reptile, thoroughly clean the affected area with a disinfectant and hot water and consult your doctor.

Have your reptiles examined by our veterinarians on a regular basis. Reptiles are very good at masking signs of illness - and those people who are unfamiliar with signs of disease may miss early symptoms. An annual examination can often detect underlying health, husbandry and nutritional problems.