Proper Supplementation is Crucial

Vitamin A is a seldom mentioned vitamin in the reptile hobby, it is not a vitamin seen on care sheets or recommend, if even offered for sale, by most retailers. Dart Frog keepers however, are no strangers to the benefits of Vitamin A in Amphibian husbandry, they see it as an essential vitamin for Dart care, one that addresses many health concerns in captive bred and raised Dart Frogs. The benefits are many and varied, from skin health and mucus production to immunity function and eye health, the benefits even extend to breeding success and reproductive health.

Vitamin A is a key element in egg production in Dart Frogs, females with adequate supplies pass on the required levels to their eggs and the result is a significant reduction in Spindly Leg Syndrom casualties in Dart froglets. Another syndrome that is almost entirely prevented with Vitamin A, is a particularly depressing one.

Short Tongue Syndrome is a mucus deficiency causing tissue in the mouth to dry and shrink, as mentioned before, Vitamin A helps support healthy mucus production, in and out. While this is a condition mostly found in juveniles, improper supplementation can certainly effect adults who may otherwise be in less than perfect health. It is a devastating condition that makes the animals unable to eat, passing slowly, with little to be done but wait.

This all sounds fantastic, does it not? A miracle vitamin, a cure all, a panacea to heal the body and mind, but why is it not a part of your daily vitamin powder? While Vitamin A is certainly essential for many body functions, it is also deadly in large doses and it is fat soluble, meaning it builds up over time resulting in fatal Hypervitaminosis. The solution is micro dosing, a once monthly dusting is all you need, every other day use your chosen daily calcium/vitamin supplements as usual.

I felt this was something I loosely say to customers all the time, I didn't want to write a journal, I am not here as a veterinarian, just a keeper who likes to share his knowledge to better the care of your animals, and increase your knowledge so you can make informed decisions about your husbandry practices

And as a final note, vitamin freshness is rather important as well, your best before date refers sealed product, once open you have about 6 month shelf life if you keep it in the fridge, half that at room temperature, so store your supplements properly to ensure they are fully charged for optimal performance.