Reptiles


All pets, including reptiles, need regular veterinary care to ensure they live healthy, happy lives. At North Heights Veterinary Clinic in Appleton, we're proud to offer exotic care for your pet lizard, snake, turtle, or other reptile family member. We're also here to answer all of your questions about your pet's care and what to expect when you bring your pet in for an appointment.

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How Often Does My Reptile Need a Checkup?

Like other pets, reptiles should receive an initial checkup when they first come into your life, then at least once a year after that. It's worth noting, however, that certain kinds of reptiles may require veterinary visits twice a year. Older reptiles and those battling illnesses will also require more frequent care. While many reptiles are known for being easy to care for, it's important to not brush aside their regular veterinary checkups. These will help them live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Veterinary Care Appointments for Reptiles

Exotic pet care is a little different from veterinary visits for more common pets like dogs and cats. To start, reptiles do not require vaccinations. That said, the purpose of a regular checkup will be to detect any potential issues and evaluate your pet’s overall health. The vet will gently examine your pet and ask about its behavior and medical history. We may also perform various tests like bloodwork, fecal analysis (a great way to spot bacterial or parasite problems in reptiles), radiology, etc. If your reptile does not behave well when handled by strangers and there are safety concerns, the vet may ask to perform certain portions of the exam while your pet is comfortably sedated.

How To Tell If Your Reptile Needs Medical Care

Like all creatures, reptiles get illnesses and injuries. Any of the following signs are indicators that your pet should be brought in for an examination:

  • Skin/shell discolorations or any unusual changes in color
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Changes in eating habits
  • Weight changes
  • Changes in temperament
  • Foaming/bubbles at the nose or mouth
  • Fecal changes
  • Posture changes

Please note that if your reptile is experiencing more alarming issues like sudden swelling, loss of consciousness, bleeding, or it has eaten something potentially harmful, it may need attention as soon as possible. Call us right away if this is the case.

Schedule Your Pet's Exotic Care Appointment Today

If you are a new pet owner or have recently moved to Appleton or the surrounding area, call us today at (920) 581-5449 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians. At North Heights Veterinary Clinic we look forward to getting to know you and your reptile.

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