Changes

===Environment===

===Environment===

Reptiles have metabolic rates of about one tenth that of mammals or birds so thermal support is essential for ill snakes. At all times maintain hospitalised snakes within their POTZ with a temperature gradient and, if critical, maintain them at the upper end of their POTZ.  Snakes also need to have a hiding place and attention should be paid to humidity control. To reduce stress the snakes should only be handled at feeding times. A veterinary hospital with reptiles as in-patients requires fully-functioning vivaria.  

Reptiles have metabolic rates of about one tenth that of mammals or birds so thermal support is essential for ill snakes. At all times maintain hospitalised snakes within their POTZ with a temperature gradient and, if critical, maintain them at the upper end of their [[Preferred optimum temperature zone|POTZ]].  Snakes also need to have a hiding place and attention should be paid to humidity control. To reduce stress snakes should only be handled at feeding times. A veterinary hospital with reptiles as in-patients requires fully-functioning vivaria.

 

===Medication===

===Medication===

The principles of medication in snakes are similar to domestic animals. Always ensure adequate hydration prior to giving any medication.

The principles of medication in snakes are similar to domestic animals. Always ensure adequate hydration prior to giving any medication.