How do pick an axolotl up and fungal infection

[Lynn claire]

So basically my axie is having a fungal infection and i decided to tub him and give salt baths but when i try to pick him up, he just gets startled cus usually before he was sick, how do i get him out of the tank for cleaning purposes? Well i just use a small tub and he slowly comes in and yea but right now when he's sick i wanted to pick him up so i could put him in the salt bath without getting his previous water in it. Im not sure though if im doing the right thing. I need help asap, dont wanna axie's life. Thank you so much.(sorry for the blurry pic)

 

[JM29]

So, your axie has a fungal infection on one of its gills ?
I don't know well the salt bath technique, as a curative method.
Whatever is the interest of a salt bath, it won't resolve the problem of the origin of the fungal disease.
Perhaps the usual tank is becoming too dirty and has to be cleaned ?

 

[Lynn claire]

Ah yes my axie has fungal infection and i have no idea why and also i clean his tank once a week so i dont think that might be a problem. Btw besides doing salt baths, is there another option?

 

[EasternRomioi3]

@Lynn claire

How is your little axolotl? Did things get cleared up? For small fungus like that, I would just do bigger water changes, at least 50% twice a week and see if it clears up. If you want help, I can "teach" you the salt bath routine but I wouldn't do that unless it is a last resort.

 

[EllieWind]

Since it doesn't look like a really bad fungal infection from your picture you can try water changes and adding a few Indian almond leaves to the tank. Indian almond leaves have worked wonders for me in the past. As far as picking your axie up to move them goes I suggest having the container you're moving them to right up close and then use both hands to secure your axolotl, one under the front legs and head, and the other under the back end. Move them quickly in one fluid motion so that they don't have much time struggle.

Something I've done before is conditioning my axolotls to tolerate being picked up/handled a bit more by hand feeding them and then lightly touching their tail or leg while they're gulping down their worm, gradually working up to having your hand completely around them. Once they realize nothing bad is going to happen to them and especially if they associate being handled with food they become pretty tolerant.