Fussy Eaters!

I very much doubt it was your viv that caused there deaths but a underlying illness that you didn't know about.
All my deformed/special needs are in the picture section on here if you would like to have a look at them
you are very right there, most people dont want to take on problem/deformed leos but its only ones with MBD or enigma problems that are really more work than ones like my Joey who has a deformed pelvis and tail but he hatched like that.

I'm gonna have to disagree a little with you sam... as much as I doubt it was the viv, it could very well be depending on what kind of wood was used to build it. Pressure treated lumber use to build the viv. It use to be commonplace to use an aresnic based c,hemical to pressure treat wood. The US has outlawed such use since people with freqent exposure to wood like construction people were gvetting sick from the aresnic seeping into their skin from constant contact and exposure. Pressure treated wood should not be used to build viv s despite the fact it is more moisture resistant because of those chemials used in the waterproofing pressure treatment.

Again tho I'Km NOT saying it was the viv but it's not unheard of.

im sure this wood is not pressure treated, just straight forward sanded and varnished wooden planks with an MDF back.
Sam, your deformed leos are so sweet, i especially like Solero, very pretty. what is an enigma problem?

Varnished/stained wood is not recommended. The varnish/stain releases off gasses even when mildly heated (under 110*F) that could affect your herp. Look for a product called "salad bowl finish". It's made, as the name implies, for finishing wooden salad bowls. It's waterproof, non toxic, and perfectly safe. It's what's called a long oil varnish - wipe on, steel wool, apply another coat until you get the look you want. Wood conditioning oils and waxes are a better sealant choice Imo as they tend to be all natural, environmentally friendly (which usually means no off gasses to harm our air, no harmful chemicals if entered into the environment via earth, air or water, and that includes affecting wildlife), and perfectly capable of sealing the wood from moisture.

The MDF could also be an issue if exposed to heat because of the glue that is used to hold those flakes of wood together. Again off gasses from the glue can be caustic. Solid sheetwood should be used not mdf or particle board.

I'm sorry to say it but the more I'm learning about your habitat, it is sounding to me like investing in a nice (used or new) aquarium (doesn't need to be able to hold water, it's just constructed safely for delicate inhabitants) might be better suited for any future herps you might consider.

Please don't think I'm being harsh or critical or blaming you at all for what happened... That's not what my intent is at all... I feel very badly that you're going thru this, and I feel very angry from the lack of quality information out there for people in your situation. Uninformed sales clerks or under knowledged, but well intentioned people giving bad advice has caused this.

Honestly who thinks about the materials they are building their viv out of and how the chemicals used in those items can affect their herps when constantly and consistantly heated, BUT also heated differently by subtle under floor heat and also assaulted by basking/infrared/spot lights. Different things are going to react differently to each different heat exposure. Unless you have knowledge in these areas you're screwed basically... unless you have a groups like us to help advise you properly