Reptiles can be fascinating and unique pets for the right individual or family. However, caring for them requires specialized knowledge and skill. A reptile's anatomy, nutrition, and daily requirements differ significantly from those of our more common pets, such as dogs and cats. Reptiles need a veterinary team that understands proper husbandry, nutrition, and medical care. At University Animal Clinic, we are here for reptile owners with dedicated services designed to keep these special pets healthy throughout every stage of life.

From bearded dragons and chameleons to snakes, tortoises, and turtles, our team provides the guidance and medical attention needed to help you give your reptile a safe, healthy, and well-supported life.

Common Reptile Species Seen in Veterinary Practice

Bearded dragons
Leopard geckos and other gecko species
Chameleons
Ball pythons and other snake species
Turtles and tortoises
Skinks and iguanas

This list is not exhaustive! If you have questions about your reptile’s species or care needs, please contact our team at (941) 253-5218.

Why Reptile Veterinary Care Is Important

Reptiles have a remarkable ability to hide their illnesses, and many health issues develop slowly or go unnoticed until they become serious. By keeping up with regular check-ups, you're taking a smart step to support their health and boost their quality of life.

Did you know:

Most reptile illnesses are directly related to improper temperature, humidity, diet, or lighting — all areas we evaluate during each visit.

What to Expect During a Reptile Exam

Your reptile’s wellness visit includes a full physical exam as well as an in-depth discussion about their environment, nutrition, and more. During your appointment, we typically review:

Bearded dragons eating veggies proper nutrition.

Nutrition: Whether your reptile is herbivorous, insectivorous, or omnivorous, a balanced, species-appropriate diet is essential. We may discuss prey size, feeding schedules, supplementation (such as calcium and vitamin D3), and hydration methods.
Husbandry: Proper enclosure setup is critical for reptile health. This includes temperature gradients, UVB lighting, humidity control, substrate safety, and enrichment or hiding options.
Hygiene: Clean habitats reduce the risk of shell rot, skin infections, parasitism, and respiratory disease. We can provide guidance on cleaning schedules and safe handling.

Caring for reptiles can feel overwhelming, especially with the unique needs of each species. We recommend writing down any questions you have before your appointment and take pictures of your reptile's environment so we can address everything thoroughly and review your current husbandry practices together. Our team at University Animal Clinic is here to support you every step of the way and help you feel prepared, informed, and confident in your reptile’s care.

Common Health Issues in Reptiles

Just like any pet, reptiles can develop a wide range of medical conditions. Some of the most common we see in the clinic are:

Metabolic bone disease (MBD)
Respiratory infections
Parasites (internal or external)
Skin infections or abnormal shedding
Digestive problems, including impaction
Injuries or shell abnormalities

Because many of these issues are linked to husbandry, regular exams give us opportunities to make adjustments before illness develops.

Diagnostic & Treatment Options

At University Animal Clinic, we offer veterinary services for reptiles, including:

X-ray of turtle at vet.

Wellness exams and preventive care
Sick visits and general illness treatment
Nail, beak, and scale trimming (when needed)
X-rays and fine needle aspirates (FNAs)
In-house lab testing, with access to specialized exotic animal laboratories

If advanced diagnostics or specialty procedures are needed, we may recommend referral to a veterinarian who focuses exclusively on reptile and exotic medicine.

When to Seek Veterinary Care for Your Reptile

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following signs:

Decreased appetite or refusal to eat
Lethargy or unusual hiding
Abnormal shedding or retained shed
Wheezing, clicking, or open-mouth breathing
Changes in stool quality or frequency
Swelling, wounds, or shell changes

Early intervention is key, as reptiles often worsen before showing outward symptoms.

Schedule A Reptile Exam With University Animal Clinic

Our team understands that reptile care can feel overwhelming, especially for newer owners. We focus on education, practical husbandry guidance, and accessible medical care to help you feel confident in your pet’s daily needs. Whether you have questions about lighting, feeding, substrate, or behavior changes, we’re here to support both you and your reptile.

If you have questions about reptile health or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (941) 253-5218. University Animal Clinic proudly supports reptile owners in Sarasota, FL and the surrounding communities.

Schedule Appointment

Don't forget to follow us on social media: Facebook, Instagram.

What Our Clients Have To Say

I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.
Paulina Testerman

Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.

Sara Little

Dr. Fink was just super with the Bruiser on his last visit. The entire staff was attentive, caring and professional. We would highly recommend University Animal Clinic to all who love their pets and want the best care for them.

ARF

All employees are amazing with animals. I am glad I found a Vet’s office that makes me feel that my 5 months old puppy is in the best hands

Heide Myrick

Even with full covid-19 protection our Basset was well cared for by the staff, I received detailed home care instructions and got a ‘checking on you’ call the next day. Our basset is on the way to revovery. Perfect outcome. Great caring friendly staff.

Stan Yonkauski

Met Dr. Sam and Dr. Fink today and was very impressed. We have been a client of University Animal Clinic since it opened with Dr. Rill. My wife and I feel very comfortable with these ladies and plan to keep our relationship with them. The staff and Dr’s are very helpful and friendly.
Pet Parent

The very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.

Ron Marano

My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.

Ronni Silverman

The entire staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Sam was extremely knowledgeable, kind, and eased my anxiety. Even though I was worried they comforted me, answered all of my questions, and took great care of my fur baby.

Zach Gennette

It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!

Jessica Sakas

Reptile Care