Re: I wouldn't. >>>

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Posted by Pennebaker on August 23, 2002 at 22:00:16:

In Reply to: Re: I wouldn\'t. >>> posted by Les4toads on August 23, 2002 at 16:47:13:

Thanks Lester,
I wasn't sure if the liquid calcium was helping or hurting as the limited amount that I tried did not seem to do either. I definitely agree with the clean water advice. Tap water has way too much crap in it, just for me, much less my HLs. I have a heavy-duty water filter/softener and all of my lizards get this same water. It's one of the reasons why i think i've had success with a lot of different species (that & all the love;)
take it easy Lester,
don't let this forum beat you down!
loren

::Hls don't seem to do well with powdered supplements. Give them natural, unfilterd sunshine instead. Feed lots of ants everyday. Feed your ants greens with lots of calcium (collards, mustard greens, romaine, dandelion greens, kale etc). A last resort i've used in times of doubt and worry for my gravid females(although i cannot scientifically vouch for it's effectiveness) is misting using a diluted liquid calcium solution [17cc of calcium gluconate per gallon of water). The HLs drink this solution off themselves or other surfaces but never drink enough of this diluted solution to cause problems(in my experiences). The liquid form is utilized more effectively than powders(although the effective absorption rate of gluconate itself is low) and doesn't clog the kidneys.
::One final note: The wonderful thing about feeding HLs ants is that they are eating their natural diet. It could be that no supplements are needed as long as one feeds ants and houses their HLs outdoors in warm climates. The drive to create and produce lizard supplements was an attempt to makeup for the lack of natural dietary variation needed by many lizards relegated to eating non-natural prey items(crickets, worms, crickets and more crickets,LOL).
::Anyhow, just a heads-up and some alternatives. I'm sure Lester could tell you more.
::loren

::
:::I was wondering if it is safe and healthy to put rep cal or any other vitamin suppliment on the harvester ants for the horned lizard... I was told by the pet store to but after reading the forum and becoming a little more informed I want to make sure I am doing the right thing.
:::Thanks Sam xoxo

::
::

::Sounds fine to me Loren. I would recommend misting with only distilled water. Any additives, however dilute, can still create problems (it is an un-natural situation). Diet provide everything necessary for health. Lester G. Milroy III
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Follow Ups:

Re: I wouldn't. >>> Cowgirl3275 08/24/02 (1)
- Re: I wouldn't. >>> Les4toads 08/24/02 (0)