Hot Take: Reptiles At The Vet — Know Before You Go

Reptiles are ectotherms, which means that they maintain their body temperature using their environment. At home, we utilize tools like heating pads, ultraviolet bulbs and heat lamps. In the hospital setting, we use incubators, warm water soaks and Bair hugger warming pads.

Why is heat support so important?

External or environmental temperatures have influence over the reptile immune system and can even affect the way they metabolize medications or absorb fluid therapy. This can make a big difference in the care of sick patients — a cold reptile is an immune-compromised reptile and being too cold can mask illness in most species. Often, our first step in assessing these patients involves warming them to an appropriate temperature, to see if we notice any changes to their clinical appearance and to aid in supportive care.

Out of the Box Thinking: Transport and Play Time

Reptiles should never be out of a controlled environment for longer than 30 minutes at a time, allowing them to maintain an appropriate body temperature. We do not recommend reptiles be kept “free range” in the home, as their overall health could suffer if the home is not warm enough.

When taking reptiles to the veterinary office, there are several creative ways you can keep your reptile warm for the commute:

• Put them on the seat and turn on the seat warmer if you have one.
• Utilize your heat vents in the car for the drive.
• Use “warm hands” — rubber gloves or balloons filled with warm water with a towel over top.
• Use a warm water bottle – be careful this does not get too hot.
• Do not take them from their environment until you are ready to leave, to minimize time out of warmth

Things you can do at home to keep your reptile warm and healthy:

A large part of reptile care starts with husbandry at home. This includes keeping your scaly friend at an appropriate temperature range for their species. Some common reptiles and their optimal temperature range can be found in the chart next to this article.

If you have any questions about this article, are about to bring a new reptile into your home and need guidance, or are concerned your reptile may be sick, contact your local veterinarian. VCA Calvert Veterinary Center has been serving Pasadena and nearby communities for over 19 years. The staff members are “your other family doctor.” To make an appointment, call 410-360-PAWS.