Why Leopard Geckos May Need To Be Hospitalized

Introduction

If you have a leopard gecko, or any other reptile for that matter as a pet that may be sick or injured in anyway, you should always seek prompt medical attention. Unfortunately there may be those instances when your pet may need more specialized care which can only be given if the gecko is hospitalized.

Since people often question the need for hospitalization, Dr. Gecko wanted to provide you with a list of reasons whey it may be preferable and more successful than you attempting to care for the reptile at home.

Please read our Disclaimer before reading any further into these common medical techniques and procedures.

Reasons For Hospitalization

Despite what some people believe, veterinarians do not recommend hospitalization of a given reptile for financial gain. They have access to the necessary information and techniques that the average pet keeper does not - and these couple together can greatly increase the likelihood of recovery for your pet.

Veterinarians understand how eager you may be to take your pet home and care for it yourself, but sometimes the pet will fare better under stricter, more qualified conditions.

The husbandry practices that can ultimately affect the well-being of the patient can be controlled. The clinic will be able to easily monitor and maintain the idea temperatures, photoperiods, disinfection, humidity and more. This is critical if improper husbandry was the principle cause of the health problem in the first place.
On-going and regular diagnostic testing can be performed such as blood work, fecal examinations etc...
The gecko can be closely observed for any subtle or overt signs of problems - especially when dealing with feeding problems, neurological impairments, regurgitation and more.
The staff will be able to closely monitor and adjust critical fluid, nutrition and drug therapies.
To facilitate the proper disposal of potentially dangerous waste materials such as needles, drugs and syringes.
A variety of legal issues facing the veterinarian and the clinic.

At-Home Treatment

Not all leopard geckos will need to be hospitalized because of their injuries or illnesses. There are some conditions where at-home treatment will be sufficient. The veterinarian may opt for at-home treatment providing:

The gecko is not in serious or critical condition that could leave it in danger of loss of life or further injury.
The treatment methods have been thoroughly discussed and demonstrated by the veterinarian to the primary care-giver.
All corrections are made to the environment and husbandry practices if warranted.
The care-giver has enough experience and knowledge to handle the treatment and can provide the necessary supportive care.