I feel so terrible! but the petshop that I got it from literally didn't elaborate on anything! I asked a million questions but all they told me was he's good to go and how to feed him :S
You are not a terrible owner! everyone has to start off some where.
You need to get digital Thermometers and Hydrometers with a probe they will bore more accurate where as dials are very inaccurate!
how are you controlling the Heat mat/pad? are you using a thermostat?
Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened.