Because of the ability of reptiles to withstand anoxia, spinal cord severance (decapitation) is not an acceptable method of euthanasia. Inhalation methods are not considered to be humane because the central nervous system of reptiles is less sensitive than mammals to a drop in oxygen tension and they are capable of holding their breaths for long periods of time. Equally, reptiles are [[Ectothermy|ectothermic]] and thus accustomed to fluctuations in body temperature - freezing is painful and should NOT be used. | Because of the ability of reptiles to withstand anoxia, spinal cord severance (decapitation) is not an acceptable method of euthanasia. Inhalation methods are not considered to be humane because the central nervous system of reptiles is less sensitive than mammals to a drop in oxygen tension and they are capable of holding their breaths for long periods of time. Equally, reptiles are [[Ectothermy|ectothermic]] and thus accustomed to fluctuations in body temperature - freezing is painful and should NOT be used. |