The importance of keeping tanks clean

Snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises and terrapins are kept in tanks. Many of these creatures will spend their lives in them so you must keep the tank as clean and warm as is required.

There is a risk of salmonella with these types of animals; it can make children and the elderly very ill. These people should avoid cleaning the cages and tanks, but regardless of your age, always wear gloves and if you can, a face mask.

To prevent the spread of salmonella always remove uneaten food and throw faeces away as soon as you can. Always wash your hands after handling the creatures.

With snakes and lizards, you’ll need to clean the tank every two weeks, or when you notice a musty smell. Take the animal out, remove the paper from the bottom of the tank and use a cage cleaning spray all over. A simple solution of two-thirds water, one part dishwashing liquid makes a cleaner. Remove all the toys and accessories to clean in warm soapy liquid.

Turtles, tortoises and terrapins are generally kept in tanks. Some are aquatic, and enjoy living in the water with a rock or some kind of dry area, and others enjoy being in a dry cage. Have a look at your pet’s feet – are they webbed? If so, they may suit water better.

When cleaning the tank take your pet out and remove all objects or ornaments. Empty the water and give the tank and accessories a clean in soapy water. Remember that you don’t need to change the water every single day because you can upset the balance of bacteria.

A fish tank doesn’t need to be emptied and cleaned – instead you will need a plastic gravel cleaner, some de-chlorinator, a magnetic algae scraper and a bucket.

• Firstly, use a plastic gravel cleaner with a hose pointing in the bucket– you shake the cleaner whilst it’s emerged in the tank and debris will be sucked up.
• Remove about 20% of the water into the bucket (it will come out of the hose).
• Next, if you have a filter, remove this, rinse the sponge inside in the water that has been removed by the gravel cleaner.
• To remove algae, use a magnetic angle remover – one side in the tank, one side out and pull the magnet from side to side.
• Finally, fill a bucket with tap water – the same amount you removed earlier. Add the de-chlorinator (flowing the instructions) to the tap water and top up the tank. Add necessary chemicals to keep the bacterial levels in the tank equal.