First vet visit.

[Kalistina]

Camo has his first vet visit on Thursday and I was wondering what to expect? I've talked with 7 different vets that specialize in exotics with extensive knowledge on chameleons, and I think I found the right one.

It's a well check visit so that I can get to know him and so he can meet Camo. Will there be a lot of poking and prodding? Do you recommend me bringing a treat for after the visit? (Wax worm.) Do I need to prepare myself for shots?

I'm also having him tested for parasites just in case. Unfortunately I cannot collect a "fresh" sample because he goes in the afternoon and his appointment will be at 9. Do you think a sample within 17 hours will produce the results I am looking for? I am able to collect directly from him, he'll easily poop into a bag where I can label and store directly into the fridge.

Any info will be greatly appreciated!!!

 

[lainezor]

When I took my little one in they weighed him and then they showed me how to give him the medication he needed. ( he had loose stools so she gave him some oral meds). The vet was very sweet, she looked around at his face a body but overall not much poking or prodding.

 

[NHenn]

To be honest, I think the trip to the vet is worse than the actual vet visit. I like to use a small butterfly cage that has mesh screening so they can still climb up but it is only about 12" high. I try to place a towel in the bottom encase they would fall during the bumpy car ride and I like to cover the cage with a white shirt or towel to help keep the stress down from all the visual movements.

As for the actual visit, they will most likely weigh him, do a visual body check and get him to open his mouth to inspect. If there is a known problem they might spend some extra time examining that issue but as for just a general check up, that should be all.

I will always grab the most recent fecal sample I have but I like to start collecting a day or two before just encase they decide to not go right before the visit. Just be sure to keep it in a sealed container and in the fridge till you leave.

 

[Kalistina]

Thank you both for your advice. I'm super nervous for him lol

 

[Olimpia]

It should be ok! Don't worry, most vets aren't going to man-handle him any more than absolutely necessary, and only if they have to. They should open his mouth to look inside, this he won't like unless he's a natural gaper when angry. But besides that you shouldn't see more proding than that.

And no shots unless for whatever reason he really needed them. Chams don't get routine vaccinations like dogs do.

And a fecal should be fine from the day before as long as it's stored in the fridge and not the freezer. Good luck with everything!