My crested gecko is SICK!!!!!!

Question
I have had this young crested gekco since holloween of 2007, but now he's
gotten to be very sick. He sheds a lot, and last month he shed again, but this
time he STILL has two layers of skin that completely cover his head, and as far
as i can see he hasn't even really tried to get rid of them! But that 'is not all
that's wrong. on his right back leg something is not right with his foot. There
is this white stuff on it that might be skin, but it's hard and has stuck all of
his toes together. I'm really worried. Also, the leg with the white stuff is much
skinnier than his other back leg. His behavior has changed, and I'm scared
that something is seriously wrong with him. Should i take him to the vet?

Any advice would be great, thanks
Thank you, Miriam

Answer
Hi Miriam, A visit to an experienced reptile vet is always the best option, I have included two links to help you find one in your area. In the meantime there is something you can do that can help him. Shedding problems are often caused by low humidity so they are very common during the winter months. The feet are frequently affected. Old retained skin will harden and skrink around the toes affecting his ability to climb and even cutting off the circulation to the toes. This situation is very stressful and likely painful as well and this will be reflected in his overall behaviour. Limbs that are not used will start to atrophy (shrink).  Once the skin has hardened it is very difficult for the gecko to remove it themselves. What you need to do is thoroughly soak the old skin in tepid water to re-soften it, that will allow you to very gently remove it from the toes.
You will need a small plastic container with holes in the lid. Put an inch or so of tepid water in it and place your gecko in there for around 20 - 30 minutes. Spraying him will help soften the retained skin on his head. Once it has softened you can gently roll the old skin off the head and toes. The structures on the feet are delicate so care is needed. If you feel uncertain about removing the old skin yourself and would rather the vet do it,  then still soak him, the softening of the skin will still help him.

http://www.arav.org/Directory.htm

http://www.herpvetconnection.com/