I epic failed my Epic :-(

[PaladinGirl]

For anyone who read my earlier post, you will know that I was worried about Epic's toe. I tried soaking him again with no luck so I finally freaked out and took him to a reptile vet.

She tried to save the toe but it ended up falling off while she was trying to loosen the skin. She suggested treating it topically with silvadene twice daily, plus an oral antibiotic and steroid. I declined the oral meds though I feel extremely guilty for doing so. It's just that he's so skittish and squirmy that I wonder if it's really worth it. As it was he was freaking out at the vet, screeching and carrying on like a maniac. There were some loud dogs and every time one barked, he went nuts. I almost wish we never went there. And I admit, his evil attitude makes me scared to handle him--isn't that asinine? Scared of a little 17 gram lizard (they weighed him hehe).

Should I go back and get the oral meds?? I'll do whatever you guys suggest. I'm putting silvadene on it twice a day. Hopefully infection's not too much of a risk since I use paper substrate and am diligent about removing poop within a half hour (or less, as long as they don't go in the middle of the night when I'm in bed).

On top of everything else, she was incredulous that I haven't been providing UV light for my geckos. Am I missing something? From what I've seen, most experienced herp keepers deny that UV light is needed. She stressed several times the importance of using it. :main_huh:

So needless to say I feel terrible. I am just in tears for my poor little guy. I blame myself completely because I knew he had shed yesterday morning and I failed to take a good look at his toes right after he was through. I've worked my butt off trying to provide the best care for them after doing what I consider a lot of research but I'm now doubting myself because the vet, who is supposed to be the ultimate expert (right?), kind of had the attitude that I'm providing substandard care.

She said to soak him twice a week unless he starts using his moist hide more. Does this sound good? Any other suggestions? Sorry for the emo-ish ranting.

 

[Golden Gate Geckos]

Awwww, Angie. Geckos do lose toes, and very rarely have complications from it. Don't blame yourself. AND... Epic does NOT need UV light. You, on the other hand, might need a different vet. ((HUGS))

 

[PaladinGirl]

Thanks so much Marcia, that means a lot. I think I will definitely not go back there. Problem is that exotic vet care is limitted around here. I'm sure it's probably like that everywhere.

 

[LeopardShade]

It's not your fault one bit. It sounds like you've done all you can and more. It would be different if you just sat back and didn't care or notice, but you did, and you got him the care he needed. That is not failing.
Anyone who really knows about leopard geckos is going to tell you flat out and simple that you do not need a UVB light. I have never seen a breeder use one before. They house their geckos in dark rack systems and the creatures thrive in those conditions. I view the mentioning of UVB lighting by a exotic pet vet when it comes to reptiles is a very general thing to say. That just because they're reptiles that they need UVB lighting. Leopard don't. They are 100% nocturnal.
It sounds like the feisty little guy is going to be fine, it's not the end of the world. Pat yourself on the back for providing unconditional care and attention to him in a time of need.

 

[M_surinamensis]

Leopard don't. They are 100% nocturnal.

Both of those statements are wrong.

... leopard geckos are not nocturnal, they are crepuscular. They also do need UVB for D3 synthesis, they just happen to be particularly efficient with the amount that they get and it rarely (not never) needs to be beyond the incidental exposure to minor background levels commonly found in the home.

 

[Golden Gate Geckos]

But they do not NEED a UV light.

 

[M_surinamensis]

But they do not NEED a UV light.

They need exposure to some amount of UVB light. It just doesn't (usually) require a UVB lightbulb to provide the amount they require.

Though a little appropriate supplementation doesn't hurt, especially if they're kept in a room where normal amounts of incidental UV exposure are impossible (windowless basement herp room, anyone?).

 

[Golden Gate Geckos]

Agreed!

 

[fl_orchidslave]

Angie, it's not a big deal for a leopard gecko to lose a toe, as long as there is no infection. Silvadene will kill any potential bacteria, but clean paper towels does minimize that possibility. I had a male bite a toe off his girlfriend last year and it healed up fine with no intervention. If it were my gecko I would not give antibiotics or steroids, or that vet any more of my business.

Leopard geckos on steroids makes me think of cartoons.

 

[Wowoklol]

They need exposure to some amount of UVB light. It just doesn't (usually) require a UVB lightbulb to provide the amount they require.

Though a little appropriate supplementation doesn't hurt, especially if they're kept in a room where normal amounts of incidental UV exposure are impossible (windowless basement herp room, anyone?).

I just moved our racks into our basement and this is now my situation. Well, there are two smallish windows high on the NORTH wall. So, not much light. I'm probably going to get a UVB setup of some sort to shine when I'm working on them/feeding etc. Not sure yet.

Make sure to keep those moist hides moist!! :main_yes: