I've done considerable research and I'm a few weeks away yet from purchasing an animal. This is my first leopard gecko, or any reptile for that matter but I'm excited and am doing it correctly. Understanding that these are considered by most to be "beginner" reptiles, what is their species reputation health wise when kept in captivity, assuming of course proper care ect?
Are leos generally healthy, sturdy animals?
- Thread starter RBJersey
- Start date
Geckologist.tj
New member
First off, kudos to you for doing research and asking questions before you bring a leopard gecko home.
Just like any living thing from apple trees to people, leopard geckos can get sick. Having said that, I am of the opinion that, if you know your stuff, they are some of the easiest reptiles to keep healthy. Just make sure you get yours from a reputible breeder, and get a fecal test done to ensure it is healthy from the get-go.
Just like any living thing from apple trees to people, leopard geckos can get sick. Having said that, I am of the opinion that, if you know your stuff, they are some of the easiest reptiles to keep healthy. Just make sure you get yours from a reputible breeder, and get a fecal test done to ensure it is healthy from the get-go.
Thanks for the help. That leads to my next question: Suggestions on where to get the leo?
ChiTea
New member
Check out a reptile vet ahead of time. Hopefully, you'll never need them, but it will help to know where to go in case you encounter a problem, rather than having to scramble to find someplace in a panic.
Good luck to you and your new gecko. I've never had a pet before - my leo is my first, but I absolutely adore him
Good luck to you and your new gecko. I've never had a pet before - my leo is my first, but I absolutely adore him
Conched
New member
Reptile expos are a great place to get a leo, plus that will allow you to see most of the different types of morphs all at the same time and in person.
You can also purchase via internet. There are many fine online breeders even a few regulars here on this forum.
I have purchased from both expos and online and have not been disappointed.
I would not consider them "sturdy" . They are soft bodied animals and the tail can drop off easily in the hands of an inexperienced handler.
Sturdy would be a bearded dragon or euromastyx.
You can also purchase via internet. There are many fine online breeders even a few regulars here on this forum.
I have purchased from both expos and online and have not been disappointed.
I would not consider them "sturdy" . They are soft bodied animals and the tail can drop off easily in the hands of an inexperienced handler.
Sturdy would be a bearded dragon or euromastyx.
Thanks so much for the help! Also, what I meant by "sturdy" was in regards to general overall health
Geckologist.tj
New member
I'm not sure where in NJ you are located or how far you want to travel, but there is a HUGE reptile expo in White Plains NY Jan. 5.
Elizabeth Freer
Well-known member
Check out a reptile vet ahead of time. Hopefully, you'll never need them, but it will help to know where to go in case you encounter a problem, rather than having to scramble to find someplace in a panic.
Good luck to you and your new gecko. I've never had a pet before - my leo is my first, but I absolutely adore him
These links may help finding a good exotics vet. Go right to the beginning of the Leo Caresheet linked right below in my signature and these three links will be live!
Melissa Kaplan's International Vet Listing
Herp Veterinarians (Thanks to Muffins94/Merissa Banta)
Herp Vet Link
Herp Vet Connection
LocalVets.com -- just type in your zip code
Find a Veterinarian - Local Vets and Veterinary Clinics, Vet Services