"However, like I stated, there's no nutritional information available. I had previously read that article, and it doesn't specifically give a nutritional analysis. They're difficult to catch and have an extensive exoskeleton. My comment was only related to the "high caloric reward, low energy expense" discussion.



My intent was not entirely clear in my previous post...with a normal and healthy hatchling, isopods are a very good food choice. I've mentioned this many times before. I even feed them to my hathcling aquatics, as the little critters will live and crawl about under water for hours!"



As a food source for young boxie hatchlings, I was referring to the soft grey young Pillbugs... As was the article from WCT. Yes I have witnessed them swimming, inevitably great swimmers due to their biological makeup of breathing via gills. I also believe they are high in calcium and have stated that in previous posts.



I find them very easy to catch as opposed to other insects as does the author of the article. I can collect 50-100 at a time just by lifting a damp board which many pillbugs cling to and tap the opposite side over a bucket. Possibly there are different varieties with respect to difficulty in catching.



While I agree with you that pillbugs are not very high in caloric value as most boxie food isn't; I favor pinkie mice( very high calories ) over dog food for boxies. With all the additives and additions of cheap fat and feathers which is indigestible ( often causing blockages) for boxies; I feel this can compromise a hatchling that has growth problems as well as fighting a fungus. Presently there are no standards in the processing of DOG FOOD. It is up to the manufacturer to put whatever in it they deem is good for their profits. Also, there are no FDA rules, or check systems, or laws that states dog food companies must post every ingredient in the food. Many delete the really obnoxious ingredients. While this may seem immoral; it is being done and is perfectly legal.



Many, many common dog foods contain soy hulls, gums, beef lard, feathers, and chicken entrails attached to a plethora of chemicals. Not really a coveted diet for a frail, sick boxie hatchling.



While I appreciate your many valued and informative postings on this forum; I have to disagree concerning your advice advocating dogfood for sick, frail boxies and the use of dogfood for any boxie under all and any conditions.....especially when there are other appropriate hi caloric foods available.



Ric K.

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