Hot Summer Tips for Reptile Keepers in Surrey
August 21, 2024
Calling all reptile keepers in Surrey – we have some important summer advice for you! As temperatures rise, it’s essential to ensure our scaly friends stay comfortable and safe in the heat. Whether you have a bearded dragon, gecko, snake, or a tortoise, these hot weather tips from Molesey Vets will help you keep your cold-blooded companions happy and healthy in the summer heat.
If you have any concerns about your pet reptile’s health, give Molesey Vets a call on 0208 979 1384.
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Six hot summer tips for cool reptiles
Sun’s out, but don’t let your cold-blooded companions get ‘knocked out’ by it! Here’s how to keep your scaly buddies nice and chill…
- Shady Spots: Create cool, shady retreats with shelters or strategically placed plants.
- Hydration Heroes: Provide fresh water for hydration and mist their enclosure to boost humidity.
- Cool Down Zones: Depending on the needs of your pet’s species, offer shallow water dishes to soak in and damp towels or cool tiles for cooling down. Make these areas accessible and ensure they don’t pose a drowning risk.
- Temperature Tamers: Use a combination of heat lamps, ceramic heaters and thermostats to maintain the right temperature gradient in their enclosure. Monitor and maintain the correct temperatures according to their species’ requirements, especially during a heatwave.
- Minimise Handling: Avoid handling reptiles during the hottest parts of the day, to keep their body temperature and stress levels down.
- Heat Stress Watch: Look for lethargy, excessive panting, or seeking out cool spots in their enclosure. If you notice these signs, mist their enclosure and cool them down with a soak.
By following these tips, your reptilian pals will enjoy a safe and comfortable summer!
If you have any concerns, call Molesey Veterinary Centre on 0208 979 1384 for emergency advice or to book an appointment with our reptile enthusiast and Vet Darren Partridge.
