Fast Five Facts - Reptile First Aid

by Karen Nilsson

If your reptiles sustains a cut or wound you can soak the reptile in warmish chest deep water to which Betadine has been added. Add enough Betadine to the water to make a medium tea color. Leave in the tub for 15-20 minutes, refreshing as necessary. If the reptile poops in the tub, it must be washed out, disinfected and another Betadine soak set up. Flush the wound area with fresh water before being placed back in the new bath.

Carnivorous reptiles fed live prey are sometimes bitten and scratched. As with other wounds, clean with disinfectant and apply topical antibiotic cream. Many of these injuries are severe and require veterinary assistance.

Reptiles usually require a supplemental heat source. If not properly contained, some reptiles can be burned as they try to get closer to the heat. Burns can be quite serious. Clean with disinfectant and contact your vet.

Impaction is a debilitating condition which can sadly cause the death of bearded dragons. If major impaction occurs, the beardie can lose mobility and can even become paralysed. Only feed bite sized foods that can be easily swallowed. Make sure you keep the temperature in the correct range to aid digestion.

At any time, if you feel that the injury is not healing properly, if the animal goes off feed, or if you notice any changes that concern you, please contact your herp vet immediately so that it can be properly evaluated and treated.