Lavender, a juvenile ball python. Note the protruding spine, retained shed, and emaciation. A vitamin C deficiency, or hypovitaminosis C, is typically seen in malnourished snakes and a rare condition. In humans, this disorder is known as “scurvy” and can cause swollen and bleeding gums as well as bruising and skin discoloration. Hypovitaminosis C is not a common deficiency in snakes, but we have received several snakes with a presumed deficiency due to their history and symptoms. This is definitely a disorder that could benefit from additional research and study. Causes This disorder is almost ..read more

A vitamin C deficiency, or hypovitaminosis C, is typically seen in malnourished snakes and a rare condition. In humans, this disorder is known as “scurvy” and can cause swollen and bleeding gums as well as bruising and skin discoloration. Hypovitaminosis C is not a common deficiency in snakes, but we have received several snakes with a presumed deficiency due to their history and symptoms. This is definitely a disorder that could benefit from additional research and study.   Causes This disorder is almost exclusively found in malnourished snakes with a history of anorexia or hyporexia ..read more

In our experience, snake diets are some of the easiest to feed due to the balanced whole-prey nature of their prey items. Snake diets generally do not have to be supplemented with vitamins or minerals, though of course there are exceptions for certain health issues and special diets. Most keepers exclusively feed their snakes rodents, including rats and mice. While rodents provide an excellent basis for most of the commonly-kept snake species, keepers can provide additional sources of prey to diversify the diet. This can help provide other nutrients as well as enrichment for the snake.  ..read more

Are you adopting an animal or bringing one to visit the veterinarian? Transport is often necessary when owning any animal, so develop a good transport plan to ensure that your animal is safe and secure for the journey.  We always recommend having an appropriate container ready for transport, your reptile should not be transported free-roaming or on a leash. This is for their own safety in the car and potentially at the veterinarian’s office. Animals can and will get loose in the car and disappear behind dashboards and under the seats. This is not a safe situation and can result in injur ..read more