Shedding (ecdysis) is a natural process in reptile species by which they replace old skin and scales. This process helps them maintain proper skin health and allows their hard, scaly skin to grow with the rest of their body. Healthy animals will shed regularly and owners will often find long sheets of discarded scales in their pet’s enclosure. Some species, such as the leopard gecko, will eat their discarded shed as a method of preventing predators from tracking them.
The Red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria) has gained popularity as a pet due to their bright colors, small to medium size, and sociable personalities. These tortoises have unique care requirements that distinguish them from other commonly owned tortoise species. With proper care they can live 30 to 50 years in captivity. 
Gastrointestinal hypomotility or GI stasis is diagnosed based on clinical history and the common clinical manifestations including reduced to absent appetite, reduced to absent fecal output, abdominal discomfort, and lethargy. It is ALWAYS SECONDARY to an UNDERLYING CAUSE such as illness, pain, stress, or inappropriate diet that negatively impacts GI motility.
Sometimes reptiles and amphibians require intramuscular injections as part of their treatment protocols. Intramuscular means “in the muscle”. Because reptiles and amphibians have vascular and renal anatomy that differs significantly from mammals, so they must receive intramuscular injections in the proper location to work properly.
It's essential to respect the legal protection of Mojave and Sonoran desert tortoises throughout Arizona. Since 1988, Arizona State law strictly prohibits any form of harassment, harm, pursuit, hunting, shooting, wounding, killing, trapping, capturing, or collecting of these animals. Understanding the current regulations is crucial, and you can find them online at www.azgfd.com or by contacting a local Arizona Game and Fish Department office.
Introducing a new reptile to your home? Implementing a well-considered quarantine is not just a good practice - it's essential. This process involves isolating your new companion to observe, conduct disease testing, and assist in their acclimatization to the new environment. The inadvertent introduction of diseases can not only lead to frustration but also to significant financial burdens while underscoring the critical role of a meticulous quarantine process.
Crested Geckos can be a great beginner level pet reptile owing to their captive care needs. They are different from many other lizards in their ability to use their adhesive setae (hairs) on their feet to adhere to smooth vertical and horizontal surfaces. This ability developed due to their arboreal habitat and the need to not fall out of trees. They only grow to a maximum length of 8-9 inches and are relatively long lived with many living into their mid teens and even up to 20 years old.
