Faecal Tests?

[TheReptile838]

Hi,
I've seen a lot about Faecal tests on here about Bearded Dragons. Never heard of this when researching, is this something that needs to be done?? What exactly do you do? There is a really good vet about 40 mins drive from me, there is a guy who knows pretty much everything about every animal. When my rabbit's leg was removed they were so good. So would I go to a vet's like there and would they do it? Any tips on what to do? I'm in South England so is there any place around there which is good for this? How often do you have if done? Mojo is 7 months old and had her for 3 months, should it have already been done?

 

[Taterbug]

Fecal checks are routine parasite screenings. Many people only do them when there is a problem, others get them annually at vet checkups. Dorm reefers don't screen or deform their dragons under a certain age or weight so unless your having issues its not a big deal you havnt done it.

Most exotics vets will run them and I think there are a few mail in labs in the UK. If you have a microscope you can get slides and solvent and do them yourself for common things like coccidia and pinworms. If you go to a vet just save the most recent poo in a bag with a damp paper towel so it doesn't dry out and take it in with you. Some places will allow you to drop off the sample without an appointment (or after your appointment).

I do mine myself, every few months (supplies are pretty cheep) or if I suspect something is up.

 

[TheReptile838]

Thanks for the reply
Oh ok, that's interesting that you can do it yourself, it's worth me looking into that. Mojo does seem to be well, eating loads, pooing normally, always relaxed and likes being handled etc...
I'll see about doing it sometime next year and then see what to do after that first one