We have noticed on medical forums and from owners that there is an increase in flagellated protozoans and amoeba lately, including in closed colonies that just a few months ago had tested clear.
I contacted Mr Kennedy at the Department of Agriculture and he states that due to the heavy rainfalls in the east and midwest this fall, they are seeing more of this right now in many animals. They suspect that vegetables grown in areas near cattle lands from rain run offs are being exposed to them and possibly water in some areas. The unusal warm fall is contributing to the problem.
Make sure you are washing vegetable and greens well when you bring them home from the stores and storing in refrigerators at least overnight prior to cutting and feeding to your animals or family. Taking a top thin layer off vegetables such as squash, sweet potatoes and other skinned ones will help or using a veggie brush. This also includes whatever you are feeding to your feeder insects also. Boiled water prior to filling a water dish for animals or drinking is advised.
Veggies and greens can be washed with a mild soapy solution and rinsed well.
Most animals should be able to deal with any they do consume themselves, but animals that are stressed, young (not developed immune system yet) or otherwise have low immune systems may start showing symptoms that compromise their health and need treated. VERY important to keep their enclosures clean and not use a substrate that can harbor parasites or bacteria.
Symptoms are runny, watery or loose poo that may or may not smell, the animal can be lethargic and not eating well, wanting to hid and sleep. With bearded dragons we are hearing of times with green poo that is not the norm, but it may return to normal as the animal's system copes with the problem.
Should anyone run into problems and have to treat, here is a good information source on the medication most often used.
Flagyl
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www.reptilerooms.com
