Criptic's Page On Herps - Reptiles - General Care

a new herp to an existing collection, you may unknowingly introduce a variety of illnesses, ranging from communicable diseases, parasites, or airborne viruses. Because of these variables, most herptoculturist will keep newly acquired herps in quarantine for 30 days. They will provide the most basic enclosure so they can better observe them for possible indications of poor health.

This quarantine tank should provide the animal with enough space for it to be active. Provide a water dish and a basic shelter fit for the type of animal you have (small cave for terrestrial, branches for arboreal). The substrate should be plain newspaper. Provide all the lighting, heat, and humidity necessary for the species. Feed your animal at regular intervals. If at all possible keep your quarantine tank in a separate room to prevent the introduction of airborne viruses to your existing collection.

During these 30 days you will be watching your pet closely. You will be looking for any sign of illness. You will be watching to make sure your pet is eating as well and if it is maintaining or gaining weight. Loss of weight or lack of eating is an indication of illness. You will also watch behavior to see if they are doing anything unusual, i.e.; rubbing of nose or eyes, walking with difficulty, excessive opening of mouth and taking deep breaths.

You will also be checking its' stool. Make sure it is solid and not runny. Make sure you don't see any white specks that maybe parasite eggs. Also, make sure you don't see any worms themselves or segments of. DO NOT handle your animal during this period and wash your hands with antibacterial soap when you have been in the tank cleaning.

If you observe any of these things do not add the animal to your collection at the end of the 30 days! Take your animal to a veterinarian for treatment. After treatment, return them to a clean quarantine tank and observe them until these signs are gone. Only then should you attempt to add them to an established collection.

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