REPTILES
"Try and be like the turtle--at ease in your own shell."- Bill Copeland
"I have been studying the traits and dispositions of the "lower animals" (so called) and contrasting them with the traits and dispositions of man. I find the result humiliating to me. -Mark Twain
Reptiles are more prevalent as pets nowadays and their husbandry and care are critical to their survival in captivity. We treat all kinds of reptiles from snakes, geckos, and iguanas to Chinese water dragons.
Reptile Wellness Exams
Our veterinarians understand the specific needs of reptiles and cannot emphasize enough the importance of good animal husbandry which includes proper caging enclosures, temperature, humidity, light, and, of course, nutrition. Most reptiles need a minimum temperature daily and must be provided with a heated element in part of the enclosure. Also, most reptiles need to have full spectrum lighting for proper Vitamin D metabolism. Our veterinarians will discuss these issues with you and also direct you to other resources to learn more about your reptilian pet.
Reptile Diseases
Many reptiles can live a long time so routine veterinary care is advisable in order to ensure a quality longevity. Reptiles are susceptible to many different kinds of illnesses not unlike our other species like metabolic bone diseases from vitamin deficiencies; bacterial infections of the mouth and gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts; and fungal infections of the skin and scales from poor hygiene from a soiled and moist environment. So routine examination is important to look for signs of these and many other ailments. Also, reptiles have many endo and ectoparasites like our other pets like protozoa, roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms and so appropriate diagnostics for these organisms should be performed to properly identify and confirm the presence of these parasites so that proper treatment can be administered.