Many imported Blue-tongued Skinks harbor large parasite loads, making treatment necessary in order for the skink to thrive in its new environment. Prior to importation, these skinks are very often kept in filthy conditions for weeks with little or no food or water, causing their immune systems to weaken and lowering their resistance to disease. This lack of resistance and immunity interferes with the natural balance between the host and its parasite, causing the acceptable natural parasite load to go unchecked, multiplying out of control. Symptoms of internal parasite infestation are diarrhea (often containing blood) and stools covered in mucus, weight loss and anorexia, sunken in eyes and depression, and worms or larva in the skink's feces. A fecal sample should be taken to your Vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Most nematodes (worms) can be treated with Panacure (Fenbendazole) administered orally in doses of 25 mg/kg every 2 weeks with a minimum of 3 treatments to be totally effective. Protozoans such as Flagellates and Amebiasis can be effectively treated with Flagyl (Metronidazole) administered orally in doses of 25-50 mg/kg with a second dose being given 3-4 days later if necessary. When treating internal parasites is critical to keep the cage and water bowl as clean as possible during the treatment process.
