Okay, not exactly dinosaurs, but all reptiles are distant relatives to the giant creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago (birds are as well, by the way.). And if you have any interest in owning an iguana, here are some tips for you:

1. Picking your pet – Green iguanas, the type sold in pet stores here in the U.S., have a brilliant green color to their skin. They start out small (about the size of your hand), but will grow up to 6 feet long (about a foot a year), and can live up to 12-15 years. Signs of a healthy lizard include bright skin, a plump tail, a round belly, and an alert disposition. There shouldn’t be any broken toes or nails, or discharge around the eyes or nose.

2. A happy home – When they are small, iguanas can fit well into a 20-55 gallon tank, but after a year, they’ll need more room to roam. Serious iguanamaniacs should consider having a room dedicated to Iggy. If that isn’t possible, then either try a big ferret cage, or you can build your own (details at www.iguanaden.com). It should be about 8 feet tall, and roughly twice as wide and deep as Iggy is long. It needs to have branches to climb on, and should be at 94 degrees near the wood and 72 degrees elsewhere.

3. Food for thought – Iguanas are vegetarians, so don’t feed them dog or cat food. Their diet should consist of 45% root vegetables (like carrots and parsnips), 45% leafy greens, 5% fruit, and 5% grains. Make sure they get reptilian vitamins (including calcium), too. Serve it in a shallow bowl in bite-size pieces, as iguana’s can’t chew.

4. It’s personal – Iguana’s have a range of personalities – from curious wanderers to “lounge lizards”. They don’t like other iguanas, but tolerate cats and dogs. Handle Iggy as much as you can to get him used to it, and put him in your tub for weekly baths (luke-warm water) to make him really happy. You can even put him on a leash and walk him around the block. Expect some amazed looks from your neighbors!

Iguanas take some serious commitment to own, but they are also truly amazing creatures that can provide you with lots of entertainment. If you have one or want one and would like some advice, give us a call.

Till next time, Dr. Steve www.ashburnanimals.com, 703-729-0700

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