Why Quarantine a New Reptile?

Why Quarantine a New Reptile?
By Devin Price

I know all to well the excitement of a new reptile. And whether you are going to introduce it to your other herps for breeding purposes or just as a new family member quarantining is a must. In our experience, even the most professional and experience ed breeders occasionally have reptiles that slip through their screening methods. The results of not quarantining can be disastrous, including huge veterinary fees, lost breeding time, and even death of many of your colony.

Proper quarantining requires a separation and observation for at least 30 days, preferably 60. These animals should be kept in a container that will be easy to clean. A glass tank or a plastic shoe box container works great for this purpose. Proper heat should be provided as you would provide for any reptile. Now you want to look for signs of infection, such as loss of appetite, loss of weight, or lethargy.

Whether infection has been determined or not proper handling of these new reptiles is a must. You will want to be sure to handle these reptiles last, after you have cared for your existing collection. This insures that any disease that the new reptile is carrying will not be transfered to your colony on your hands or fingers. You will want to be extra careful around their water dish and waste, as these are the major sources of bacteria.

Be assured that the extra time and effort that you put into your reptiles initial health will pay you back in years of problem free reptile keeping.