Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Whats everyones thought on deworming and parasitizing leaf-tailed geckos (i.e. sikorae). I have heard it both ways and am not sure what to do before buying a couple more to go with the one i already have. If you recc. it, what do vets generally charge.

Thanks

A vet visit is always advisable with a new animal. I have no idea what vets usually charge. It varies with your location. Our vet charges $25 for an office visit. He is really reasonable, however. He did surgery on one of our leos for about $70 total.
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2.0 Leos
2.3.4 Fattails
0.0.1 redfoot tortoise
0.0.1 sulcatta tortoise
1.1 Dogs
0.1 cat

I personally do not trust majority of vets out there because half of them have not seen a reptile in their offices before and claim to have great experience with small animals. I've lost a total of 4 high-end snakes to poor judgement on a vets part.

I currently keep about 45 uroplatus and have not medicated any of my animals unless I absolutely have had to. Example - worms in their fecal deposits or sudden change in behavior that was in line with a parasite infection. If you are concerned about parasites check out Melissa Kaplan's herp vet locator. She's a great source of information on where to find one in nearly every state. If you live in the San Francisco bay area or in The Los Angeles Basin I can give you some good recommendations of two avian and herp vets in Portolla Valley and Berkeley and Hollywood. Avian vets tend to be moderately versed with reptiles as their biology is not drastically different (according to my old vet in Portola Valley).

I would advise keeping your eyes open for a fresh fecal deposit and collect it ASAP in a sealable container. Seal it refrigerate it and get it to an experienced vet who is knowledgable about reptile parasites and have them run a sample on it. If it turns up with anything in it, treat the gecko for it. If its clean, don't waste your time medicating them as its too stressful for the gecko.

message me through kingsnake if you have any questions
jason