Question for all large lizard owners

Relax Mon,Jamaica MeCrazy · #1 (**permalink**) 09-01-2007, 07:06 AM

How do you guys manage the severe scratching that you're large lizard can inflict upon you? I have a rhino iguana nowhere near his full size and already he's able to give me some nasty scratches. Sad thing is I dont even feel it anymore, but the scratches are starting to become so deep that they may leave permanent scars. The pain I can handle, but I dont want my arms to look like I tried to commit suicide. Is it really as simple as clipping their nails?

BonafideHerps · #2 (**permalink**) 09-01-2007, 07:12 AM

Try using welding gloves when handling. They go up your arms, very useful.

Rich

The Mad Poet · #3 (**permalink**) 09-01-2007, 07:13 AM

He's no iguana, but because he considers the area his rightful perch I try to wear arm protection when handling my Nile, and always make sure to quickly and properly treat any injuries received. Proper care of a laceration does WONDERS to reduce scarring. I've never really considered clipping his nails.

ssjsmits · #4 (**permalink**) 09-01-2007, 07:14 AM

Good advice Rich!

PM Tom (Razeraze) He knows a few things about monitors

He'll help you out a ton

Jem_Scout · #5 (**permalink**) 09-01-2007, 07:40 AM

Use a small dogs nail clipper and welding gloves.
By rubbing the top of their heads you can put them to sleep too....then start clipping

RehabRalphy · #6 (**permalink**) 09-02-2007, 06:09 AM

Well, with my adult male iguana (13 pounds, about 5.5 feet), he leaves big gashes on my arms on accidents. I just learned how to hold him properly. Put my arm down the middle of his belly. Between the legs so when he kicks, he wont land them.

dirtborder · #7 (**permalink**) 09-03-2007, 04:32 AM

I agree with BonafideHerps, wear welding gloves. That's what I do with my 4ft. Blackthroat Monitor. I also only handle him when neccessary. If I pick him up without gloves, I can count on getting some deep, painful scratches. And that's when he's just trying to hold on, when he's really trying to get away...God help my forearms.

dirtborder · #8 (**permalink**) 09-03-2007, 04:47 AM

I agree with BonafideHerps, wear welding gloves. That's what I do with my 4ft. Blackthroat Monitor. I also only handle him when neccessary. If I pick him up without gloves, I can count on getting some deep, painful scratches. And that's when he's just trying to hold on, when he's really trying to get away...God help my forearms.

ru57 · #9 (**permalink**) 09-03-2007, 05:20 AM

Eh, I just kinda got used to the scratches. You can always wear a jacket or gloves or something. If you do a google search for "ig gear" there's a site that sells gloves specifically for this.

ilovemylizard · #10 (**permalink**) 09-03-2007, 05:27 PM

Clipping the nails won't completely stop scratches, but it will sure make them less painful...

I used to take a male 5 1/2 foot iguana, and wrap a large bathtowel over and around his entire body and head, with only one foot out at a time...I used people nail clippers, and then an emory board to smooth off the edges....{don't skip this step..the cut edges of the nail can be very sharp if you don't smooth them off)

He could still give me some good red marks but at least no more bleeding gashes.

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