Good questions. This is just what I do mind you, maybe not the 'standard' that most breeders do. I use SaniChip substrate so I don't totally change substrates as much as those that use newspaper or DCL liners, but here are my answers...





1. Should I dump out all the substrate in the tank from time to time and replace it and if so, how often should I do this?

- I do daily spot cleanings picking out feces and urates and tossing the dirty substrate. If there is any mess still on the tub, I use a mixture of water, anti-bacterial Dawn, and a little bit of bleach to clean the spot. I keep a big supply of paper towels and never cross cages with the same towel. I'll spray the solution on the towel, then wipe. I leave the tub open for about a minute, then all is well. I don't remove the snake for this type of activity but try to keep them away from the spot while I'm cleaning it.



2. How often should I remove all items and thouroughly clean the tank?

- I guess I'm pairing this one with part of your first question. I do entire cage cleanings at least once a month. That includes removing the snake, tossing all of the substrate out, using Roccal to thoroughly clean the cage, rinsing the cage, and bleaching the water dish holders (I use ceramic dishes from Ethical Pet Products). I let the tub dry well for about 5 minutes (after wiping it out with towels), then put new substrate in, then replace the snake.



3. How often should I dump out standing water in the water bowl? In addition, how often should I thouroughly clean it and refill with fresh water?

- I learned a good trick years ago about water bowls. Instead of having to wash, rinse, and clean water bowls, I use the 8oz deli cups available at most food supply stores (or I believe Superior carries them online). I use the 5" Ethical Pet Products bowls available at a lot of pet stores or online. The 80z deli cups fit nicely inside. Once a week, I will toss ALL of the deli cups, put new ones in, then refill. Only costs about $7/week to do 100 water dishes. Seems easier than washing 100 of them plus I don't have to worry about leaving detergent or bleach on them which could cause problems.



Again, this may not be the most efficient thing for somebody that has a few animals, but once you get into breeding and are housing a ton of animals, efficiency counts and I've found this to work pretty darn well.



Hope this helps out and happy herping,

Jason @ Jason's Jungle

www.jasons-jungle.com

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