Re: Thinking of adopting an iguana

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Posted by Mr. D on September 08, 2002 at 13:08:27:

In Reply to: Thinking of adopting an iguana posted by abukuchick on September 08, 2002 at 12:03:28:

A "solid" floor is really the only way to go as open mesh of any kind is more prone to catch claws than if it were used on vertical walls. I'd recommend that you go with a single sheet of lino if at all possible and caulk the seams at the walls well. If tiles are the only option make sure that the seams are also well caulked. If you're using wood for the enclosure seal the floor (and the rest of the enclosure for that matter) with at least four coats of poly and allow to cure (not simply "dry") completely before allowing the ig in. Sealing the floor under the lino will help ensure that, on top of making the enclosure safe for the ig, should there be any leaks in your lino/tile the chance of wood rot will be minimized and cleanup will be easier in the long run.

The reason for making sure that any exposed wood is sealed is due to levels of toxicity - especially in "aromatic" woods such as pine which is usually cheapest by far. By all means, though, if you're partial to maple, walnut, or oak or any of the more "exotic woods then don't hold back ;). Just make sure that anything that you use is well sealed and cured. If you have the option of making the enclosure deeper (3' or more) then do it and build a seperate enclosure for outside from PVC or other means. SInce this is going to be the main enclosure for your ig bigger is always better. If possible construct the enclosure in removable "panels" in order to fit in and out of doors if/when the time comes to relocate the enclosure.

I'm sure that if you made it known to the rescue that you were interested in the iguana something could be worked out to hold the animal until such time as the enclosure is ready. Try checking out Herpsupplies.com for anything you may need instead of getting it at a local pet shop. usually much better prices.... You should also look into getting a copy of James Hatfield's "Green Iguana: The Ultimate Owner's Manual".

Unless taxonomy has changed recently, I don't believe that there is a "subspecies" of green iguana. Colors and patterns change due to geographical origin but everything out there is still a "green iguana" including the "blue diamond" and "red phase" that companies such as Fluker Farms develops for increased profitability. As far as finding someone else, where are you located in the world?

Incidently, what has this "rescue woman" told you about general husbandry i.e. diet, heat, UV, humidity, etc. ?

The Iguana Spot

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Re: Thinking of adopting an iguana abukuchick 09/08/02 (0)