Bearded Dragon Concern

Question
QUESTION: Since Tuesday our Beardie has not eaten or pooped. and im wondering why. he does not seem to be shedding he just lays on his rock all day ..

ANSWER: Hi Stacey, With summer coming to an end and the days getting shorter adult bearded dragons will start to enter their brumation period. This is similar to hibernation in mammals and can last for several weeks. Brumating dragons typically do not eat and often seek out the cooler parts of the tank. They slow down metabolically and sleep most of the day. They will appear quite normal ie. bright eyed and alert when they are picked up but quickly go back to sleep when placed back in the enclosure. There is not usually any noticeable weight loss. That is the simplest way to determine if you have a brumating dragon or one that is ill. An ill dragon will appear generally lethargic and often weak with half-closed eyes. There is usally a change in the droppings (runny) and often visible weight loss.  If you feel that he is showing any other signs of illness other then the lack of appetite then a vet visit is your best option.
Giving them a soak about once a week during their brumation will help keep them hydrated and can also trigger a bowel movement.

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QUESTION: Oh but our bearded dragon is only about 6 months.

Answer
Hi Stacey, I would still not rule out brumation. Beardeds can reach sexual maturity by six months as it is more a product of size rather then age. I have linked a veterinary site based in their native Australia that mentions it and discusses brumation briefly. Again though, if you are noting any other signs that your dragon is not himself then I would recommend a vet visit. It also never hurts to double check the temperatures in your tank, reptile appetites are very temperature dependent.

http://www.westtoowoombavetsurgery.com/site/view/48778_CaringfortheBeardedDragon