Why a health check is especially important before brumation
To prevent problems, reptile vets recommend a thorough health check no later than six weeks before brumation. This check should include a general clinical examination and a faecal examination. If treatment for parasites is needed, the temperature reduction should only begin six weeks after the last dose of medication, because at low temperatures the medication cannot be properly broken down and excreted. A full health check should also include an X-ray to detect conditions such as lung disease, retained eggs, or bladder stones. In animals weighing more than 200 g, a blood test is also possible. This gives a better picture of the animal’s general state of health and of its organs – for example through liver and kidney values and electrolytes.
In the UK, the RCVS Find a Vet service helps locate practices with exotic and reptile experience. In Germany, reptile vets are listed by the AGARK (the reptile vets’ working group of the DGHT).
When the decision on brumation should be made is explained in Deciding on Brumation. All steps from the health check to emergence in spring are summed up in the Refrigerator Brumation Checklist, and in full detail in the Refrigerator Brumation Handbook.