Once allowed out of its enclosure, a reptile or amphibian can easily get into trouble and most of that is beyond the scope of this article. But even inside its own environment, there are many things that can go wrong and that can quickly become life-threatening for your herp. Prevention is always the best way to manage such problems, and setting up your environment properly can go a long way toward ensuring that you and your herp will continue to have a healthy, happy relationship. In the unfortunate event that your herp does encounter a toxic substance, the Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour hotline number is 1- (888) 426-4435. There is a $50.00 charge for each case, but it just may save your herp's life.

Cage or Enclosure Environment

Safety and size are the first considerations. You need to make certain that the enclosure is escape-proof but adequately ventilated and large enough for the animal to move around and grow within it. As a rule of thumb, for every 1 foot of animal you should estimate 1-1/2 square feet of floor space, but this will vary dramatically from animal to animal and species to species. Iguanas, for example, require far more room than snakes.

Be certain that there are no sharp objects or corners upon which your herp can damage itself. You also need to be wary of toxic materials, so be certain that the enclosure is thoroughly free of chemical residue from the manufacturer, or shipping container. You will also want to be certain that the cage will be easy to clean and maintain. Be sure the cleansers and detergents you are using leave no chemical residue.

Aquariums with screen or pegboard tops make good cages, as do specially designed fiberglass cages, which are available in lengths of up to four feet. You can also make your own or have one custom-made by having glass cut to order and assembling it using silicon adhesive. If you use a screen cover, be certain to observe your pet carefully. The mesh can cause damage to your herp's skin if it repeatedly rubs against it, and some mesh can also contain heavy metals. Copper, lead, zinc, magnesium, mercury, and similar metals are all dangerous and should be avoided inside your herp's enclosure.

Substrate (Bedding)

Use a cage liner for easier cleaning, and avoid cedar and pine shavings, which contain oils that are toxic. Soil and sawdust can retain too much moisture and foster disease, while cat litter can induce pneumonia in some reptiles. It is often helpful to have two sets of liners so you can easily exchange one for the other, enabling you to completely clean and rinse each one. Be sure to use substrate specifically recommended for your species.

Feeding

The key to a healthy diet is variety and balance. Some herps are very specialized eaters, and some seem to adapt easily to whatever is offered. However, the number of nutritionally related diseases and deficiencies is extensive, and many captive reptiles and amphibians do not get adequate amounts of nutrients. Such inadequacy can manifest itself in ways that range from faded coloration to major limb and shell deformities, metabolic bone disease or soft-shell disease, and a host of behavioral issues as well. In addition, live foods can contain parasites, bacteria, viruses, fungi, or protozoa that can be detrimental to your herp's health. Always buy good-quality food from a reputable source. Be knowledgeable about the diet requirements for your herp and follow them carefully. Provide adequate lighting for metabolic processes, and vitamin/mineral supplements as recommended.