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Related Articles & Questions
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- Health & Wellness
My bearded dragon is inactive, not shedding, and rarely poops. What's wrong?
Thanks for your question about Tarzan. The lack of activity that you are describing may be normal for Tarzan, but when you then combine it with her not shedding and not going to the bathroom very often I begin to suspect that there is something else going on. I would recommend feeding Tarzan a small salad of dark leafy greens on a daily basis, with calcium supplementation 2-3 times per week based on her age. I would also recommend protein 2 times per week based on her age as well. You eluded to having recommended temperatures in the cage, but I didn't see how you were monitoring the temperatures or if there was UVB light provided. I would recommend monitoring using a digital thermometer and changing the UVB light every 4-6 months. I am glad that she seemed to be doing okay at her vet visit in the fall. I didn't see if blood work was performed, but that is something that I recommend for every reptile at regular intervals for wellness examinations, as reptiles are very good at hiding their illnesses from their owners. I would also consider performing radiographs (x-rays) if these haven't been performed previously, as well as a fecal examination. I hope that gives you a place to start, and that Tarzan feels better soon.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Food & Nutrition
My weak, sick bearded dragon can't climb. Where to put him in tank?
If he is weak, then yes, remove any climbing branches to prevent falls. You can soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. This will provide warmth and may treat or prevent minor dehydration. Repta-Boost is an excellent supplement, however you should still provide a powdered multivitamin and calcium supplement. Also, replace the UVB light if it is old.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Food & Nutrition
Why is my turtle's shell peeling and has white spots? Is she healthy?
Turtles need more than a heat lamp for good health. Basic requirements include: clean water, a water heater, UVB light, basking platform, balanced diet and vitamins and minerals. Sunlight is good, however window panes and tank glass block most of the beneficial UVA/UVB rays that turtles need to synthesize Vitamin D3 and to properly utilize calcium. A good UVB bulb should be placed above the tank no more than 12-14 inches away from the basking area. It should not be blocked by glass, Plexiglass or fine mesh. The peeling and white spots may be due to poor water quality, poor diet, lack of UVB lighting or a combination of the three. Keep water clean via filtration and weekly partial water changes. Scoop out uneaten food daily. The filter should be rated for at least twice the volume of the tank since turtles can be very messy. You may be able to get Shelby to eat greens if you offer them about an hour or two after the heat lamp comes on in the morning. This will give her time to warm up. A cold reptile will not eat. Dice the greens and vegetables into manageable pieces. they should be dusted several times weekly with a calcium supplement and a multivitamin. Once she eats the greens, you can offer pellets and protein (feeder fish, nightcrawlers, crickets, raw beef heart, etc.). The spots can be gently scrubbed daily using a soft bristled brush and diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens). Allow for a 1-2 hour dry dock (out of the water) after each cleaning.If it doesn't improve or if Shelby becomes lethargic or stops eating, then have her examined by a your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Since most aquatic turtles are red eared sliders or yellow bellied sliders, I have included a link regarding care and keeping below. If you have a different species, post a new question with the species or request a consultation and we can discuss the case in greater detail. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Training & Behavior
My reptile's tank is perfect, why is he acting strange?
Stress or illness are likely responsible. Placing dark colored paper around the lower 10-12 inches of the glass might decrease stress. If this doesn't seem to help, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
- Health & Wellness
My red eared slider has wide shell lines. Is it growth or disease?
Bobbi looks fine. Pyramiding is not as common in aquatic species as it is in terrestrial species. The wideness of the black lines indicates rapid growth. Ideally, they should be half as wide or even thinner. Continue to provide proper environmental parameters and a balanced diet including animal protein, fresh greens and vegetables and commercial pellets. You can review slider care at the link below. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html
Updated on September 24th, 2025
