Hospitalising the reptile or
amphibian patient.
One of the most critical parts of
reptile and amphibian veterinary care
is their hospitalisation. Each species
has their own special set of require-
ments, and if these are not provided,
patients cannot metabolise drugs
properly and exhibit increased stress,
decreased immune function and
slower recoveries. It has taken a
number of years and some trial and
error for us to construct a fully-
functional hospital ward. With a
combination of long- and short-term
enclosures, different thermostatically
- controlled heating regimes (using
light sources, heat mats, heat cord,
water heaters and ICU incubators),
artificial UV, outside basking areas,
swimming enclosures etc., we are able to cater to the
specific needs of each species we see. These may consist
of a simple tub enclosure, a more complex vivarium, or
even a dedicated ICU enclosure. A reverse-cycle air
conditioner coupled with wall insulation helps control
ambient temperature and maintain overall temperature in
the hospital ward.
The diet and the way in which a patient eats must also be
considered. For example, many turtles will not eat unless
submerged. However, if they have a shell injury this may
not be possible, so a feeding tube may need to be in place
if frequent feeds or medication are required. Another
option would be a ‘turtle steamer’ that allows only part of
the turtle to be submerged. A variety of sizes and types of
prey items is essential to feed the range of lizards, snakes
and turtles kept in the hospital.
The layout and positioning of the enclosure is also
important. Constant movement, noise or vibration may
lead to stress. The provision of appropriate hides and
avoidance of visual contact with other patients can help
reduce this and allows for more a more comfortable stay.
One of the most important parts of managing a reptile
and amphibian hospital is the nursing care. The veterinar-
ian is responsible for formulating the plan, performing
the surgeries, collecting the samples and frequently
reassessing the patients to ensure everything is on the
right track. However, a large amount of the care is
administered by qualified nurses. Without this
component, it would not be possible to provide the
quality of care required.
I hope this gives an insight into what goes into develop-
ing a dedicated herp veterinary practice both on the road
and at the clinic. We still have a lot to learn about these
often cryptic animals. However, new information is
becoming available all the time, allowing us to provide
the tailored care they require and improve the outcomes
for these amazing creatures.
qtr page adAbove: the fully-functioning hospital ward
contains a range of long- and short-term
accommodation, including a dedicated ICU
enclosure.Image by Michael Cermak.(^)
Image by Michael Cermak.
The Great Lizard Trek.
Felicity Bradshaw & Norma MacDonald.
The unmistakeable first impression of this publication is
of the magnificent colour illustrations throughout by
Norma MacDonald, an Aboriginal Yamatji artist. Their
earthy tones and Aboriginal flavour impart a wonderful
feel and consistent theme, which is aided by the landscape
format, such that although this is intended for primary
school children, it could also almost be considered as a
coffee table book.
The text is by Felicity Bradshaw, a retired Research
Officer at the University of Western Australia. We are
introduced to a variety of lizards that are experiencing
difficulty with their eggs, due to climate change and
temperature-dependent sex determination. Led by the
Perentie, they decide to trek south to find a more suitable
(cooler) habitat.
Ms Bradshaw has been at pains to introduce Aboriginal
names and folklore, and to tease the reader with tidbits of
scientific information about the cast of characters - such
as the capillary action used by Thorny Devils to suck up
water, parthenogensis, and the unique behaviours of small
dragons, monitors and Shinglebacks - much of which is
elaborated in an appendix which also contains additional
information about climate change and the precarious
position of many egg-laying lizards. As such, this there-
fore becomes a vehicle to pique the interest of young
readers in our unique native herpetofauna, and a variety of
important scientific concepts on a wider scale.
Personally, I feel that the plot could perhaps have been a
little better developed. The only other criticism I have is
that I am not quite sure about the target audience. I am no
expert on education, but the text is written as if intended
for quite small children, who may miss the important
messages contained therein, whereas older children may
find it a little patronising. However, this is a great package
based upon admirable objectives and is certainly worthy
of further development (we look forward to subsequent
titles). This book will no doubt be a welcome addition to
many school libraries; it is immeasurably enhanced by the
spectacular illustrations.
Reviewed by John McGrath.
CSIRO Publishing
ISBN 9781486308828
RRP $24.99
Hardback, 32pp
Format: 220 x 318mm.
A Good
Book.
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