When was the last time your dragon visited a vet? Like every dragon owner, you also want to have a happy and healthy pet. If only you take your dragon to the vet for a checkup, it is likely that infections and serious health complications are spotted at the earliest stage. The thing you need to keep in mind is reptiles are extremely good in disguising illnesses. They may be ill but show major signs and symptoms only when they get very sick. You should be cautious and observe your pet closely.
Chinese water dragons can stay healthy if you are a good owner. But it is always good to have the routine health tests done to ensure that your pet has clean bill of health. You should also have some idea about the common health problems that can affect your pet.
If your dragon is not eating well and its stool has a foul smell, it is possible that your pet suffers from an infection caused by internal parasites. Your pet needs to be taken to the vet immediately. Sometimes, infections caused by parasites need to be treated by antibiotics.
Chinese water dragons can have serious medical problems if you use water that contains chlorine or heavy metals. You should always use filtered water in the dragon enclosure and change it frequently. This is important because water dragons defecate in water trays. Even the water you use to mist the tank and maintain humidity should be filtered and chlorine free.
Your dragon may injure its snout by banging on the walls of the enclosure. This is more common if you have a glass enclosure that is not covered by barriers. Minor snout injuries such as bruises can be taken care of by simple treatment at home. However, if the injury is extensive or contains pus, your dragon needs to visit a reputed reptile vet to take care of the wound.
This can prevent the wound from getting infected. Infected wounds that are left unattended can reach deep to the bones and get really out of hand. There have been cases where water dragons lost teeth and even pieces of facial bones due to severe bone infections. If your dragon visits the vet for a regular checkup, you can follow the vet’s instructions to keep your pet in better health.
