My Gecko foot, I think its swollen?

Question
Hi, my name is Diana and I am 12 years old, and I hate to admit it, but i used to neglect my leopard gecko. Not abuse it but ignore it. Now I think her foot has been cut, by something, I'm not sure, but her foot, I don't think she has feeling in it. When my father tried to put ointment on it she tried to bit him. I think Dexy is about 3 years old now. Please I don't know what to do. I changed the sand into paper towels and I think the sand got into her cut and infected it, but I'm not sure. I also think the heat pad of mine has made it worse. But if I turn it off she'll freeze at night.  PLEASE! Help me! I don't want to lose her and I surely don't know what to do. I would thank you so much if you help me.

Answer
Diana,

If you think she has an open wound, flush it with a betadine solution and apply the antibiotic ointment afterward. She should be alright if you keep it clean. I think it's a good idea you took the sand out. I also do think that she has feeling in the foot because her trying to bite your father probably means she was in pain when he went to apply the ointment.

I think you should consider finding a different source for heat. Have you considered an overhad nocturnal infrared bulb? I would NOT discontinue the heat pad without having another source of heat there for her. Maybe you could put the heat pad in a towel and that way she can't get direct access to the heat pad if it is too hot.

Thank You and please follow up with any further questions,

Sara J Gwerder
President
Raptor Rescue Iguana Sanctuary
Shreveport, LA
www.RaptorRescue.org

Good Diet + UVB Radiation + Proper Temperatures + Set Daily Schedule = Healthy + Happy Reptile