Reptiles – an introduction
15 Reptiles – an introduction Reptiles are among some of the more unusual pets seen in veterinary practice (Fig. 15.1). An approach similar to that for other pets may be…
Osteomyelitis in a Hermann’s tortoise
18 Osteomyelitis in a Hermann’s tortoise INITIAL PRESENTATION Nail loss in a Hermann’s tortoise. Introduction Reptilian metabolism is slower than that of mammals. Pathological processes therefore usually develop (and heal)…
Gastrointestinal foreign body in a tortoise
16 Gastrointestinal foreign body in a tortoise INITIAL PRESENTATION Inappetence, reduced faecal output, hindlimb paresis in a Hermann’s tortoise. Introduction Pet chelonia often roam in large outdoor areas, which include…
Fish – an introduction
25 Fish – an introduction Many species of fish are kept in captivity, varying from small tropical species housed in indoor heated aquaria to larger temperate species in outdoor ponds….
Mammals – an introduction
2 Mammals – an introduction Small mammals are commonly kept as pets. Various species may be presented to the veterinary clinician, often with diverse husbandry requirements and disease predispositions. Presenting…
Dystocia in a snake
19 Dystocia in a snake INITIAL PRESENTATION Inappetence and condition loss in a corn snake. Introduction Although many herpetologists keep snakes for breeding, it is not uncommon for owners to…
Enucleation of an eye in a goldfish
26 Enucleation of an eye in a goldfish INITIAL PRESENTATION Unilateral ocular swelling in a goldfish. Introduction Goldfish are attractive fish, relatively hardy and long-lived (>20 years in optimum conditions)….
Dysecdysis in a leopard gecko
20 Dysecdysis in a leopard gecko INITIAL PRESENTATION Retained skin after shedding in a leopard gecko. Introduction It is vital to assess the pet’s husbandry in cases such as this….
Amphibians – an introduction
23 Amphibians – an introduction Introduction There are over 4000 species in the three orders of the class Amphibia. Many are endangered in the wild, particularly due to worldwide spread…
Hypocalcaemia in a green iguana
22 Hypocalcaemia in a green iguana INITIAL PRESENTATION Collapse and tremors in a green iguana. Introduction Green iguanas are common reptile pets (Box 22.1). Destined to become large (<2 m in…
