So I just brought home my Russian, his names Dog... dont ask . He's active most the day, kept me up all night digging out his hide box... He hasnt eaten anything yet, but i keep a bowl full of mustard greens available. ive caught him bathing in his water tray once already and laying underneath his basking light. The pet store didnt have a basking light so im pretty sure he's enjoying that.
My biggest concerns right now are the substrate, the lighting, and his shell. I bought a fairly nice UVB light setup, but the temp in the basking area stays right around 80-85. I'd like to see it a little higher (prolly why he hasn't eaten yet). so I suppose i need a stronger bulb, i believe i have a 75 watt at the moment.
The substrate right now is just about 4-5 inches of cocnut coir. I've read this is suitable but it seems like he has trouble getting around in it. when he walks his little feet just sink down in it. Are there any methods of compacting it so its firmer yet soft enough to dig? I've also heard you should moisten it for humidity's sake, how would one go about doing that?
The shell im not terribly worried about, and im sure the vet will know whats up. It doesnt look like the pictures of shell rot i've see and its definitely not pyramiding. It just looks a little dry. I picked up some Iodine solution as ive heard this will disinfect any surface bacteria. Any suggestions on a specific solution and method of application to make sure his shell is nice and clean?
Sorry this is kinda long (who doesnt enjoy a good novel now and again?) pics coming soon! Thanks for reading! ~~~ Mitch
My biggest concerns right now are the substrate, the lighting, and his shell. I bought a fairly nice UVB light setup, but the temp in the basking area stays right around 80-85. I'd like to see it a little higher (prolly why he hasn't eaten yet). so I suppose i need a stronger bulb, i believe i have a 75 watt at the moment.
The substrate right now is just about 4-5 inches of cocnut coir. I've read this is suitable but it seems like he has trouble getting around in it. when he walks his little feet just sink down in it. Are there any methods of compacting it so its firmer yet soft enough to dig? I've also heard you should moisten it for humidity's sake, how would one go about doing that?
The shell im not terribly worried about, and im sure the vet will know whats up. It doesnt look like the pictures of shell rot i've see and its definitely not pyramiding. It just looks a little dry. I picked up some Iodine solution as ive heard this will disinfect any surface bacteria. Any suggestions on a specific solution and method of application to make sure his shell is nice and clean?
Sorry this is kinda long (who doesnt enjoy a good novel now and again?) pics coming soon! Thanks for reading! ~~~ Mitch