Reptile Veterinary Care
Oakland Park Animal Hospital is your source for reptile care in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you currently have a pet reptile or are considering acquiring one, establishing a relationship with a veterinarian specializing in reptiles is an important step.
So Many Choices
“Reptile” covers a wide range of animals suitable as pets, but unlike dogs and cats, the differences aren’t just size, breed, and color. Reptiles include snakes, lizards, turtles, and tortoises, each with subgroups having specialized dietary and environmental requirements to maintain good health.
As a reptile enthusiast, you should have a clear understanding of your pet’s needs. For example, snakes native to desert areas may develop skin problems if kept in a moist habitat. Chameleons need a very different environment and diet than desert iguanas, and while some lizard species are strictly planted eaters, others require a more varied diet. Adult tortoises may weigh two pounds or 200 and can live for more than 20 years. Reptile “care sheets” are available online, and are a good source of information for current and future reptile owners.
Importance of a Reptile-Specialist Veterinarian
Reptiles have as wide a range of health issues as there are reptile species. Snakes can be “egg-bound” and snakes, lizards, and tortoises can develop life-threatening problems from ingesting their substrate (bedding) when eating. Tortoises are subject to a number of bone diseases, many of which are caused by nutritional or UVB light deficiencies. Mites are often seen in pet reptiles, and careful treatment is necessary to eliminate the mites without eliminating the reptile. These animals are also sensitive to medication, so proper dosing is critical.
Call Oakland Park Animal Hospital for an Appointment
If you have questions about proper care for your pet or a reptile in need of veterinary care, contact a veterinarian at Oakland Park Animal Hospital for an appointment.
