Iguanas and the Weather
Hurricanes, ice storms and floods can present a serious threat to iguanas. Here are some ideas.
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Disaster Shelters do not accept pets. If you live in a flood or hurricane prone area, check for hotels outside your area that will accept pets. Your local SPCA or Humane Society may keep a list of hotel chains that are pet friendly. Keep a large pet carrier for car trips such as this. If you decide to sneak any reptile into a hotel, be reasonable. Put up the do not disturb sign when you are out of the room and don't let the maid find your pet.
- Power outages in the winter are a problem also. Look for a new or used generator. Heat packs can be purchased from camping stores. Kerosene heaters may also be used, but do not leave these unattended. If your iguana does become too cold, do not warm it up by turning the heat up to 100 degrees. Warm the iguana slowly. Try using a tub and gradually warming the water.
- If the supply of greens at the grocery may be interrrupted, canned or dry iguana food may be substituted. Baby food may also be used, but this is not an acceptable long term diet.
- Iguanas may become overheated. This is especially true when they are kept in glass aquariums that are placed in front of a window. Never place a glass aquarium outside in the sun. Even very hot days may be dangerous. Provide shade or water.
- Check out this advice from the Humane Society and the Red Cross.