To all new keepers of Leopard Gecko's
- Thread starter LEOPARD1
- Start date
Riverside Reptiles
Administrator (HMFIC)
Do keep in mind that the way large scale breeders vs. pet owners keep their animals is not necessarily the same. Large scale breeders like Ron have a very different outlook and expectation on husbandry as well as quality of life for their animals than most pet owners do. As for leaving supplements in the cage, it's up to each of us to decide what's best for our own animals. The downside to leaving free access to supplementation is the lack of control over how much gets ingested. This can become an issue. Over supplementing is just as bad as under supplementing. So, at the end of the day, you'll have to decide for your animals what is most appropriate.
LEOPARD1
New member
I am simply sick of the "norm" on this site is "no supplements inside enclosure" its been repeated over and over and over to new and experienced hobbyists. I find no harm in having supplements in cages. If you do it correctly it can be extremely beneficial it just seemed like everyone joined the bandwagon after it was pushed so much. If you dont thats your decision if you do its also yours. Dont condemn something that works for LOTS of hobbyist or almost make it seem that the keepers who use a dish of vionate and osteoform are mistreating their Geckos. It comes off like that quite often.
Aimless
Super Moderator
please also be aware of the fact that posts are answered by volunteer members of the community. some members push a "no supplement" routine while some members do not. none of these opinions are indicative of a forum consensus or standard of care.
that is why the best way to get the most out of any forum is to read posts with multiple opinions and strategies, and find your own middle ground for your own animals.
that is why the best way to get the most out of any forum is to read posts with multiple opinions and strategies, and find your own middle ground for your own animals.
Shijadi
New member
We're only trying to help you, not 'condemn' you. The more experienced keepers here are only trying to help you avoid making the mistakes that they have run into in the past, and they only want what's best for the animal. And just because people here offer suggestions and help doesn't mean that you have to listen to everything you say; like Riverside mentioned it's really up to you to decide what is best for your animal, and your own experiences to judge what is right. Just take what people have to offer with a grain of salt and ultimately make the decision on your own.
Also understand that people will not always agree with your practice. Believe me, I've had my fair share of panic days when I thought I was raising my geckos completely wrong. But in the end I've gradually learned what I think is best and I've just kinda learned to not let people get to me so much, while still considering what they have to offer. And hey, if you have something that you personally think really works, back it up in detail and share it with the community. It may prove to help others more than you know.
Please don't take so much offense to us, we're only trying to help. And if you think you don't need anymore help, then help others. That's what places like this forum are for.
Also understand that people will not always agree with your practice. Believe me, I've had my fair share of panic days when I thought I was raising my geckos completely wrong. But in the end I've gradually learned what I think is best and I've just kinda learned to not let people get to me so much, while still considering what they have to offer. And hey, if you have something that you personally think really works, back it up in detail and share it with the community. It may prove to help others more than you know.
Please don't take so much offense to us, we're only trying to help. And if you think you don't need anymore help, then help others. That's what places like this forum are for.
MikeD
New member
I'll be honest, I'm on the fence about it.
I've been reading A LOT about this very topic and am still undecided. However, for now, I'm not keeping any supplements in the enclosure. That may change. I'm doing my best to make an educated decision on the subject.
I use this forum as one of many sources of information.
I've been reading A LOT about this very topic and am still undecided. However, for now, I'm not keeping any supplements in the enclosure. That may change. I'm doing my best to make an educated decision on the subject.
I use this forum as one of many sources of information.
hmarie186
New member
The fact that calcium carbonate, which is what reptile supplements use, REQUIRES a fairly acidic environment to absorb should be reason enough to give with food. Food increases the acids in the stomach needed for it to even be effective.
Violate has a first ingredient of corn meal. It also contains BHT, a questionable (at best) preservative. Everyone has their own opinions but realize that MOST of us have done extensive research and have years of experience before we have decided to open our mouths.
Breeders have a lot of animals to care for. They don't have time to dust food or the money to buy certain supplements. Cheap and fast is the name of the game. Most big time dog breeders recommend Purina, but you clearly dislike them. Because they raise dogs does that make their suggestions 100% perfect? Food for thought.
Violate has a first ingredient of corn meal. It also contains BHT, a questionable (at best) preservative. Everyone has their own opinions but realize that MOST of us have done extensive research and have years of experience before we have decided to open our mouths.
Breeders have a lot of animals to care for. They don't have time to dust food or the money to buy certain supplements. Cheap and fast is the name of the game. Most big time dog breeders recommend Purina, but you clearly dislike them. Because they raise dogs does that make their suggestions 100% perfect? Food for thought.