Safe temp uvb with standard bulb base?

Brit G

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Are these bulbs any good for a boost in UVB temporarily? I hate to mention price, but they only cost ~$15 each. I shouldn't have this Texas tortoise longer than next Friday by the latest (long story) but would hate for it to begin developing mbd in the meantime. I've had the tort about 6 days now. More info on its enclosure can be found in another post that I can link once I get home. If possible,I would like to use the clamp lamp I have rather than buy a new 20 gallon terrarium hood for a T8 10.0 reptisun strip light, since this is only temporary. Another option is $70 for a mercury vapor uvb/uva combo bulb off Amazon (as the pet store doesn't carry it). I do have Prime. Or, maybe a supervised hour or two outside will get the poor tort a "fix", perhaps I can do that every evening until Friday but am really busy (that's why I don't have a tort of my own atm!)

I have stayed away and warned clients away from the coil-type uvb. When I was researching lights for my beardie, read that those types have been linked to eye problems if used long term... but what is "long term," exactly?
 

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wellington

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No, they can cause eye damage. However, if you can get him outside every other day you don't need artificial uvb.
 

wellington

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Pick up a kiddie pool, 5-10 bucks. Put some dirt in it and use something for a hide, even a board across for him to get under and put it half in shade and half in sun. Let him be in it for about an hour daily or every other day. He's safe, getting uvb and you can still get a few things done while he's out there.
 

Brit G

Active Member
Joined
Jan 9, 2016
Messages
127
Location (City and/or State)
Texas
Pick up a kiddie pool, 5-10 bucks. Put some dirt in it and use something for a hide, even a board across for him to get under and put it half in shade and half in sun. Let him be in it for about an hour daily or every other day. He's safe, getting uvb and you can still get a few things done while he's out there.
Will do!
 

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