Reptilian and amphibian pediatric medicine and surgery.

Abstract

Herpetological medicine and surgery requires knowledge and understanding of many different species. Herpetological pediatrics requires even more knowledge and understanding of the differences between adult and neonate, juvenile, and subadult patients. Proper environmental conditions and diet are critical to the health of growing reptiles, and providing the proper conditions and care for hospitalized patients is a vital component of treatment. Challenges often exist due to patient size. Exams, diagnostics, treatments, and surgeries can all be performed successfully on most pediatric patients. Flexibility in thought processes and techniques, the ability to adjust to the specific needs of each case, and some special small or fine equipment enable veterinarians to provide high-quality veterinary care to pediatric patients.