Armadillo Lizard - Bathtime

Question
Hi Pam,

I wrote to you a few weeks ago about Armadillo shedding. We have been bathing Spike once a week. Sunday we put him in his bath and he stuck his head under water and didn't bring it out. We watched for about 10-15 seconds and then we pulled him out. He had his eyes closed and was slumped and when he did open his eyes he sat with his mouth opened staring into space. Have you ever had this experience? How long can they keep their heads under and be safe?

Thanks,
Spike's worried owners

Answer
 Sounds like he may have inhaled some water.  True armadillo lizards are desert lizards and would not have the capacity to hold their breaths underwater, like an iguana can,  I would have him checked by a good reptile veterinarian to rule out ant chance of pnuemonia.