Considering a Tegu... what to look for (rehoming)

[Jake001]

We are considering purchasing a 2.5 year old Tegu. I don’t have much background info on this lizard and I am wondering what to look for when getting a rehomed Tegu?

I have done some research and feel pretty confident in the care etc. We will be building an enclosure suitable for him if we decide to get.

I don’t have much experience with lizards, but do keep a reef tank, dart frogs and a leopard gecko.

Here are a couple of pics of the guy being considered.. thanks so much for the help!

 

[Walter1]

Good looking young male. Why is he being given up?

 

[Jake001]

Good looking young male. Why is he being given up?

We don’t know for sure, we will be asking questions tomorrow.

Are there any indicators etc. to look for that can show possible issues? I know all are unique, but as in my other hobbies there are things you want to avoid right off the bat. Thanks for the help.

 

[Guman]

Let's hope they have had a vet visit ask the records.

 

[Walter1]

Some basic warning signs:

Skinny thighs
Skinny waist
gurgling when breathing
Nasal discharge.

These are obvious red flags. As Guman suggests, you want vet records.

 

[Godzilla Earth]

to me he looks good, but he might have some kind of other problem so monitor his breathing. if you hear him wheezing than go to the vet.

 

[Walter1]

Also, make sure he walks properly and parts of him don't quiver. That'd be metabolic bone disease(MBD).

 

[Godzilla Earth]

Also, make sure he walks properly and parts of him don't quiver. That'd be metabolic bone disease(MBD).

if that happens, It could also be a D3 overdose. their symptoms are nearly identical

 

[AlphaAlpha]

Some basic warning signs:

Skinny thighs
Skinny waist
gurgling when breathing
Nasal discharge.

These are obvious red flags. As Guman suggests, you want vet records.

Also, make sure he walks properly and parts of him don't quiver. That'd be metabolic bone disease(MBD).

All great points.

GUT INSTINCT ......... does he look bright eyed and healthy.....

 

[Godzilla Earth]

All great points.

GUT INSTINCT ......... does he look bright eyed and healthy.....

instinct is a powerful thing, trust it...(sometimes it's messing with you but maybe thats just me)

 

[Debita]

Gut instinct....yes - he's beautiful, doesn't look like he's missing toes, or has been abused. My guess is that the owner isn't able to handle the routine anymore. Adding to Walter1's recommends....I'd say the tail is also supposed to be thick and not skinny. So - thick at the top by his legs is good. (I think his looks good.)

If I was thinking about doing what you're doing, I'd really want to see how he reacts to me. Personally. Might seem obvious, but if he was treated well, he most likely won't "start" or be freaked out with most things. If no one can hold him at all, he needs some dedicated training to gain trust with you. Probably worth it, but might not be your capacity because it could take awhile. 2.5 yrs is usually a time where the animal has calmed down - passed through puberty (1-2yrs) and is easier to contend with. These aren't easy animals, because they're smart and wily. People have quoted them as being "masters of escape". That said, I love mine, and would get more if I had the space! Good luck!!

Do you get a couple days of assessment?

 

[bocacash]

He looks fantastic...good size, fat tail & thighs, big jowls...and, it looks like he likes to/is used to getting petted ! BIG plus if he is cool with people ! Watch for the things others said here...and, if he were mine, I'd get his nails blunted. They pull and dig to move around and his look like they could slice skin easily... even if he didn't mean to. Blunting/clipping the very tips does NOT reduce their ability to burrow...one of their favorite things ! Good Luck !