Avian & Exotic Pet Clinic of Roanoke

Did You Know....

• Amphibians include frogs, toads, salamanders and caecilians.
• The word "amphibian" means double life--many species spend part of their life in aquatic (water) and terrestrial (land) environment.
  
• Hardier species as pets include Fire-bellied toads, Pac-Man frogs, White’s tree frogs, Mud Puppies, African Clawed Frogs and Fire-bellied newts.
• Always wear gloves and face protection when cleaning amphibian cages to prevent zoonotic disease exposure.

New Owner Corner

Here are some links for you to investigate

• Reptile Channel
• Melissa Kaplan's Herp Care Collection
• Reptile Buzz

F.A.Q

Salamanders can live over 10 years. Some of the larger frogs can live more than 20 years.
Diets are species-specific. When feeding insects, be sure all prey items are properly gut loaded with a balanced feeding formula for 3-4 days prior to being fed to your pet amphibian.
Be sure to provide an ideal-sized, safe enclosure, proper temperature gradient, proper humidity and/or water quality, cage location, stocking density and hiding opportunities to help minimize stress.
Usually the caging costs more than the pet. Amphibians commonly range from $5 to $40.
Do not use distilled water or chlorinated water because they can kill amphibians. Bottled spring water is best for your amphibians.
Health tips: Amphibians are most sensitive to environmental toxins and husbandry shortcomings. Be sure to research the biological needs of the species of amphibians you keep, prior to bringing them home. Schedule regular check-ups and parasite screening. Be sure to provide full spectrum lighting (UV-B range included) for proper bone development. Avoid mixing species.