What to Look For When Choosing Your Reptile Vet
A reptile vet is one who is certified to practice in the field of reptile care. It is also one who is highly trained to deal with all types of reptiles including the poisonous reptiles. The term ‘veterinary medicine’ encompasses all branches of biology that are related to the study, care and treatment of reptiles. Reptiles are studied closely for their temperament, life span and their general health. Therefore, it is not surprising that the veterinary medicine branch of science is one that is thriving right now.
A reptile vet is a specialist who is qualified and trained in all aspects of reptile care including diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and nutrition. They want to ensure that your exotic pet is in perfect health condition so that you can enjoy years of enjoyment together with your little friend. They will also want to witness your reptile pet do a regular reptile health test before scheduling a visit to the veterinarian.
One of the most popular pets today are reptiles and amphibians because they make fabulous pets. Their friendly disposition, long life span, ability to bond with their owners and many species available make them a popular choice for families all around the world. reptiles are considered to be a type of mammal and as such require regular visits to the vet for health checkups. A reptile vet is trained in all aspects of biology, including microorganisms, anatomy and physiology. Thus, they have the necessary skills and knowledge required to properly diagnose the needs of your exotic or semi-exotic pets.
There are different subtypes of reptiles including true herp (optically produced) species, cinosilium species, ornithopteryx species, spiny lizards, meietsuckas and muroids. The types of lizards and snakes that require the services of a herp vet include all African carnivores, all Australian carnivores, all Box Turtles, iguanodon, Nile crocodiles, pangolin, stone-head parrot and tree-climbing monitor lizards. While there are specific species of lizards that can be treated in a vet clinic under the general category of reptiles, there are also other special species that should only be seen by specialist reptiles. Examples of these special species include the leatherback turtle, green iguana, red-eared sloth, leatherback mouse, tailless lizards, tuatara and white-tipped amethystine.
A physical exam and diagnostic work up is necessary for every reptile vet visit. Your pet’s health depends on their health in the wild, so it is important to ask your vet about the exact tests, procedures, equipment and materials that will be used. Furthermore, it is equally important to ask about the qualifications of your potential service provider. All competent reptile veterinarians must be licensed with special certifications to provide such specialized treatment and examinations. You should do some research before choosing a vet care and ask to see their qualifications and certifications.
There are several requirements when seeking an exotic animal vet and one of them is having a captive owner license. This license is necessary to prove that you are holding the exotic animals in captivity. Captive owner is defined as the person who has acquired an exotic pet in any manner whether it is bought from a dealer, breeder or a private party. The person having exotic pet must hold a special permit to buy, sell or possess the said animals, otherwise they will not be legally allowed to possess them.
For reptiles, there are several veterinaries to choose from. A few examples of well-known reptile veterinaries are: The Snake expert, Pritchard-Hubbell Animal Clinic, Virginia Zoo, Quackenbush Park Zoo, Atlanta Reptile and Rehabilitation, Kingsley Park, etc. These veterinaries are available in different areas in the United States. Some are members of Association of Reptile Veterinarians and/or the Reptile World Health Organization. Some other important aspects to consider when choosing a reptile veterinarian include his experience level and his qualification as a specialist. It is advisable to choose a specialist with years of experience so that the veterinarians can give you accurate diagnosis and correct diagnosis for your pets.
Lastly, before deciding on the best vet for your pets, it is very important to check out the facilities and the vet’s accreditation. It is also important to find out about the veterinary policies and payment policies before making a deal with them. Some vets might not take insurance, which is why it is important to check this out first. In addition, finding out about the animal shelter or rescue where your pet came from is good as well because they might have specialized veterinarians there. Most importantly, make sure you research well and thoroughly before making any decision regarding your pets’ health.
