quarantine question???

[ZStone]

Ok as I've read many threads about improper quarantine. I haven't read any about proper quarantine procedures. I don't need to quarantine anything at the moment and I would think most of it would be common sense. I could easily be overlooking something and others may benefit from someone explaining the procedures of proper quarantine. Thanks

[Terranaut]

When you bring any new reptile home you should keep it seperate for at least 90 days. Best if in another room. 6 months is better but 3 is fine in most cases. Reptile deseases can take that long to show themselves. Boas can carry IBD for a long time before they start stargazing and showing symptoms. By then if you didn't quarentine you just killed your entire collection. Most of the time its ok but you really should practice this. I have added snakes in the past and not done this but never again. Also don't handle the new reptile then go to your existing collection and do a spot clean or something without cleaning yourself and ensuring you don't transfer anything with you. Hope this helps. I am sure others can add to this.

[Lankyrob]

Always handle/care for your existing collection first, never use the same tools for both new and old animals, after doing anything with the quarantined animal i would shower and change clothes before going near my current animals (i do this when i get home from anywhere that i am exposed to reptiles, pet shops/reptile shop/zoo etc)

[shaunyboy]

i spray my quarantine tanks with provent a mite before the arrival of a new snake

i keep the tank in a seperate room for 6 months

after working with quaratine snakes,i always shower and put on fresh clothes,i do NOT go near my collection on the days i work with new snakes

that said....

if i buy from a trusted reputable breeder,who i know keeps his collection mite free and in good health,then i only quarantine for a month or two,just to be on the safe side

cheers shaun

[ZStone]

What do you all use to sterilize? Yeah I recently read about someone losing their whole collection. I can't imagine how horrible that would be. That's really what got me thinking I should ask. Thank you all for your advice