Help for newbie with injured Jackson female

[Shiloh’sMommy]

I picked up this Jackson at the expo yesterday. She was $40 down from $75 because of her lip thing which we chaulked up to just how she was from hatch. She is my second chameleon but first Jackson. I investigated the lip thing earlier today and it’s because they bag them like snakes instead of putting them in a container with a stick. It’s a bad practice that leads to injuries. To my surprise the next day she looks better, but I think Baytril may be a good idea. Anyone dealt with something like this? On the way home you definitely could tell she hated that bag. The sales worker said it was a 4.5 hour drive home. I’m glad I got the girl even though it supported this crappy company. Unfortunate they just don’t care. Lady said she was 2yrs. I’m hoping I can get her a hibiscus tree soon and more plants. I know in her enclosure she wants to feel safe.

 

[MissSkittles]

@JacksJill is our Jackson’s expert and @kinyonga has a wealth of experience and knowledge with a variety of species.

 

[JacksJill]

I try only to use baytril if another antibiotic fails. It can be hard on the kidneys. If you do use baytril be sure to keep her well hydrated.
I wouldn’t rush to start antibiotics as long as it continues to improve. Any sign it’s getting worse and I would jump on the antibiotics.
If you are planning on getting a chameleon it’s always a good idea to take a box with a branch mounted in it for transport.

 

[Shiloh’sMommy]

I try only to use baytril if another antibiotic fails. It can be hard on the kidneys. If you do use baytril be sure to keep her well hydrated.
I wouldn’t rush to start antibiotics as long as it continues to improve. Any sign it’s getting worse and I would jump on the antibiotics.
If you are planning on getting a chameleon it’s always a good idea to take a box with a branch mounted in it for transport.

What are the best antibiotics?

 

[JacksJill]

I have used TMP/SMZ very successfully many times. Ultimately the best antibiotic is going to be the one that the bacteria is sensitive to. The only way to determine that is with a culture and sensitivity collected by your vet and sent to the lab. If that isn’t affordable or practical then you try an antibiotic and if you don’t get improvement after a few days you switch to another. You have to have good communication with your vet. You may have to go in for recheck appointments.
Baytril is a very good broad spectrum antibiotic and that is why is has become overused. My opinion is that it’s better to start with something else and then save it for your second choice. Using what your vet is comfortable and familiar with may be your only choice. You can always ask for alternatives.

 

[Shiloh’sMommy]

I have used TMP/SMZ very successfully many times. Ultimately the best antibiotic is going to be the one that the bacteria is sensitive to. The only way to determine that is with a culture and sensitivity collected by your vet and sent to the lab. If that isn’t affordable or practical then you try an antibiotic and if you don’t get improvement after a few days you switch to another. You have to have good communication with your vet. You may have to go in for recheck appointments.
Baytril is a very good broad spectrum antibiotic and that is why is has become overused. My opinion is that it’s better to start with something else and then save it for your second choice. Using what your vet is comfortable and familiar with may be your only choice. You can always ask for alternatives.

Thank you. I have bactrim. I have doxy. I can culture. The “exotic” vets here read from a paper but my regular vets are great!

She wasn’t into me handling her so I’ll let it be and keep an eye on her. In the first pic, was that her tongue? My daughter told me it was.

Thanks so much for taking the time to reply everyone.