Dear Mods (and other experts)

[satomi325]

I like the idea, but I don't think it's necessary either. Not all situations are the same and cannot be addressed in the same manner. Not everyone has the same resources to help their animal. Every situation might have to be addressed accordingly to that specific situation and not in general. Also, maybe have a stickied thread of essentials to have in a basic "reptile first aide kit".

Most of the 'general and common' injuries and illnesses have been covered. Like what to do when your snake gets a respiratory infection or a burn, for example. And pink belly and a minor minor burn can look similar.


The thread where a member instructed the OP to amputate her snake's tail was not a common occurrence. Yes, reptiles do get necrotic tails, but I'm talking about the advice for a DIY at home amputation. That advice was ridiculous and a form of cruelty in my opinion. And the OP was foolish enough to listen to that without listening to the other posters or even go to a vet.

And if someone is really that worried and unsure about their animal and it's in a potentially emergency situation, for goodness sake, take it to the vet! They shouldn't sit on their butt waiting online to hear back from complete strangers. Yes, some of us are very experienced and have great insight on certain situations. But that doesn't change the fact, no body here is an actual qualified herp veterinarian. Some things are just out of an internet forum's league.

And if you can't afford to take your animal to the vet, don't own animals!! Get a pet rock! Some, not all, DIY home treatments can be worse than just leaving your animal be.



Anyway, rant over.
For basic-minor injuries, it should be treated the same way as human injuries. (Clean the wound with Betadine or other antiseptic and maybe apply a medicated cream, for example)
The only thing you have to watch out for is the products you use. Some safe things for humans could be toxic to reptiles. For example, Neosporin with pain killer is toxic to reptiles. But Neosporin without it, is fine to use. Ointments and oil based products soften scales and can make them fall off, where as creams are harmless.