Vet Checkups: When and how often?

[IgbyKibbits]

After monitoring the forums for a few months now, I am actually curious about what people's vet procedures are, in that I haven't taken my guys into be examined since I got them in October. I haven't had a need to do so (in that they've been healthy), but is it normal protocol to take them in for a checkup shortly after purchase?

Thanks!

[John]

It really depends on the origin of the frog. If it's wild caught (as most of the frogs in the pet trade are) then it should go to a vet for de-worming. Healthy frogs really don't need "check-ups", just make sure they have good stable conditions.

[IgbyKibbits]

I bought my White's at PetSmart when they were fairly little (1" to 1 1/2"). I would assume that being Whites, and being so small, they were captive bred, correct?

Regardless, good information to know for myself and other new frog owners out there! Thanks for the quick reply!

[John]

Yes they were likely captive bred, but since it's Petsmart, it's possible they were kept in a tank that previously held wild caught frogs, so there's no guarantee they're free of parasites.

[IgbyKibbits]

That's a very good point John, and not one I had considered! I will start looking for a good vet in my area and get them tested just in case. Better safe than sorry!

[SludgeMunkey]

I usually spring for an annual fecal, but only because my vet does it for free when the pugs get their "samples" taken in.

Truth be told, it can be very difficult to find a vet in the USA that handles herps, let alone one willing to work with amphibians. Seems to me like most of the herp vets here int he states mostly do only snakes and turtles.

[Kurt]

Yes they were likely captive bred, but since it's Petsmart, it's possible they were kept in a tank that previously held wild caught frogs, so there's no guarantee they're free of parasites.

I would add to that by saying, unless you bought your frogs directly from the breeder, I would have them treated for parasites. Thats what I do. I would say the majority of my amphibians have been treated for GI parasites.

[IgbyKibbits]

Thank you Kurt - it helps to know what your experience has been with your frogs in the past. I'm really glad that I posed the question and I'm going to get my little family into the herp vet as soon as I can to get a checkover and treatment. Thank you so much for the input!