-----Original Message-----
From: Jill [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]
Sent: Monday, June 25, 2001 8:41 PM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Re: re-post serious question
What was the vet's intention in using astro-turf? to
eliminate any possibly
allergy sources? This doesn't sound wise to me- if
accidentally ingested,
it could potentially cause a blockage. The best allergy-safe
bedding to use
is plain white unscented tissue and paper.
Ok, I'm coming out of lurk mode for this one. My guess is
that the vet was not an experienced rodent vet, but rather an "exotic"
specialist. Most reptile owners know that when you have a suspected mite
infestation or other type of contagious infection, you replace normal
bedding with Astro-turf. The Astro-turf is easily sterilized, and does not
allow most parasites places to breed. Also, generally they recommend that
you try and use a lighter colored Astro-turf so that you can see the
parasites if indeed there are any. Of course, snakes and lizards generally
do not chew their bedding like rodents would, and the vet just didn't make
the connection. He reacted to the possible infection and recommended the
most sterile environment possible.
Pamela
