Sick Eastern Cape Dwarf Chameleon Saved From Illegal Trade

The following story about an eastern Cape dwarf chameleon was submitted by Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital in South Africa.

A highly compromised eastern Cape dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion ventrale) was admitted a few days ago. This male was not only underweight and dehydrated, but he also presented with metabolic bone disease. He was confiscated from an illegal wildlife trader by a member of public.

He was placed on fluid therapy and a daily calcium injection. He was kept under a UV lamp. Initially, he was too weak to eat on his own, and we tube-fed him with EmerAid IC Carnivore.

Thankfully all the treatment, hydration, and much TLC were successful. He is now eating on his own. Thus far he has gained 4 grams, going from 12 to 16 grams (about 0.4 ounces to 0.5 ounces), while under our care.

Once he is healthy, plans will be made to relocate him to his natural habitat.