Hospitalising the reptile or
amphibian patient.
One of the most critical parts of
reptile and amphibian veterinary care
is their hospitalisation. Each species
has their own special set of require-
ments, and if these are not provided,
patients cannot metabolise drugs
properly and exhibit increased stress,
decreased immune function and
slower recoveries. It has taken a
number of years and some trial and
error for us to construct a fully-
functional hospital ward. With a
combination of long- and short-term
enclosures, different thermostatically
-controlled heating regimes (using
light sources, heat mats, heat cord,
water heaters and ICU incubators),
artificial UV, outside basking areas,
swimming enclosures etc., we are able to cater to the
specific needs of each species we see. These may consist
of a simple tub enclosure, a more complex vivarium, or
even a dedicated ICU enclosure. A reverse-cycle air
conditioner coupled with wall insulation helps control
ambient temperature and maintain overall temperature in
the hospital ward.
Above: the fully-functioning hospital ward
contains a range of long- and short-term
accommodation, including a dedicated ICU
enclosure.
The diet and the way in which a patient eats must also be
considered. For example, many turtles will not eat unless
submerged. However, if they have a shell injury this may
not be possible, so a feeding tube may need to be in place
if frequent feeds or medication are required. Another
option would be a ‘turtle steamer’ that allows only part of
the turtle to be submerged. A variety of sizes and types of
prey items is essential to feed the range of lizards, snakes
and turtles kept in the hospital.
The layout and positioning of the enclosure is also
important. Constant movement, noise or vibration may
lead to stress. The provision of appropriate hides and
avoidance of visual contact with other patients can help
reduce this and allows for more a more comfortable stay.
One of the most important parts of managing a reptile
and amphibian hospital is the nursing care. The veterinar-
ian is responsible for formulating the plan, performing
the surgeries, collecting the samples and frequently
reassessing the patients to ensure everything is on the
right track. However, a large amount of the care is
administered by qualified nurses. Without this
component, it would not be possible to provide the
quality of care required.
I hope this gives an insight into what goes into develop-
ing a dedicated herp veterinary practice both on the road
and at the clinic. We still have a lot to learn about these
often cryptic animals. However, new information is
becoming available all the time, allowing us to provide
the tailored care they require and improve the outcomes
for these amazing creatures.
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