Cleanliness is important to all species, and this includes reptiles in Orange County and around the world. There are different ways to do this for each individual reptile so be sure to consult your reptile’s veterinarian.
For snakes baths help them shed old skin, kills mites, and helps them move their bowels. The ideal time to bathe a snake is at the start of their shedding cycle. However, since they enjoy their baths so much then it is okay to do it at other times as well. Keep the water temperature between 100 and 108 Fahrenheit. Do not use chlorinated water. Do not leave them unsupervised, and do not bathe them too often. Always use safe handling procedures.
Bearded dragons love baths. They should never be in water above their knees. Keep the water temperature between 85 and 92 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not use soaps, detergents, or chlorine. Although you can splash them it is best to not get the water in their eyes or nose. Limit them to about 15 to 20 minutes, and bathe them at least twice a month unless told otherwise.
Photo by Kim S.
For information when it comes to bathing your reptile pet do your research before you bathe them. It is better to know everything ahead of time than to find out about a misstep afterwards!