My tree dragon

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have a tree dragon about 1 year old and right now he's going through this weird stage were he's not eating. He's also not as active all he does is lay around all day and sleep. He's also doing this weird thing were he doesn't open his eyes even if I wake him up. Is this normal or is he sick it almost looks like he's hibernating. I'm just a little nervous that he'll be okay.

ANSWER: Hello Alec:

    Tree dragons are not known for their athletic prowess however they usually walk around with their eyes open.  I am not a vet. but I strongly suggest that you have your dragon looked at by an experienced Veterinarian.  My expertise's is in the line of venomous snakes although I have owned just about every species of reptile there is, I think you should ask someone other then myself about your problem.

I wish I had more of a concrete answer for you but when the life of a pet is involved, I think fast action is best.

         Truly Your's
         Joel La Rocque

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do tree dragons hibernating it looks like it?

ANSWER: Hi Alec:

    If the temperature in his habitat is above 65 degrees F.  the tree dragon will not hibernate at any time of the year.  If you have it in its recommended temperature range, it should appear normal and exhibit normal activity for that species.  If I were you, and really enjoyed this pet, I would take it to a Herp. Vet as soon as possible.  There is a young lady named Pam on this panel who is by far more knowledgeable then myself with tree Dragons, you might want to ask her and see what she has to say.

         Best of luck
         Joel

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: He died on Thursday December 17,but hopefully if i get a new lizard it wont happen again.


Answer
Dear Alec:

    I wish I could have done something to alter the outcome, I am genuinely sorry about you loosing your friend.  I have felt like you must feel now, well over 100 times over the last 40 years.  All you can do is learn from your experiences and continue on.  Snakes and turtles have a rather long life span, frogs and lizards are not as fortunate.  Remember the good times and don't replace him,  just get a new friend and move on from there.  Please remember that you are the best judge of your pets health, if you think it looks off or acts off, it may very well be ill.  In a case such as this, take it to a Vet and get the answer right away.  I really want to help all of the reptile lovers out there but in a case where it may be several hundred miles away, I am not a very good substitute  for a Vet, I wish I were.

    Try and press on, I know it hurts and don't let anyone tell you different.  Any friend is bad to lose.

         All the best
         Joel