Reptile Awareness Day is coming up on October 21st! Of course, one might have expected this day to take place in summer. After all, our reptilian pals definitely prefer warm weather. While our winters are quite balmy, it still gets cold enough to be a concern to reptiles. If you have a snake or lizard, You will need to take a few precautions to make sure your pet is ready for the cooler temps. A Langford, BC veterinarian offers some advice on this below.
Equipment Check
Reptiles have some very specific environmental needs. While you probably have a bit of leeway if something malfunctions in the middle of summer, your pet could get dangerously cold if that were to happen on a winter night. Make sure that all of your pet’s heating and lighting equipment is working. If you haven’t replaced the light bulbs for a while, this is a good time to do so.
Backup
Power outages can be a huge concern for people with reptiles. We also strongly recommend getting some sort of backup power for your pet’s habitat, just in case. A small generator will do the trick. You’ll need to get fuel as well. It’s best to get these things in place now, before it gets really cold. There’s no such thing as being too prepared!
Transport
If your reptile hasn’t been to the veterinary clinic for a while, this is a good time to take them. Make an appointment now, before it gets too cold. If you have a very small pet, you may be able to transport them in their regular habitat. Otherwise, you’ll need a travel tank. A plastic storage tote with air holes is often a good bet. You may need to take a few steps to make sure that your pet will stay sufficiently warm on the trip. One thing you can do is heat up a rice bag, and put it on the outside of their travel carrier. You can do this with water bottles as well.
Decorating
Who says you can’t have a little decorating fun with your reptile’s cage? Put seasonal decorations, like pumpkins, around or outside the cage. You can also get themed stickers made just for pet habitats.
Please reach out with questions or concerns about your pet reptile’s health or care. As your local Langford, BC animal clinic, we’re here to help!
