labored breath and puffing out beard

Question
Hi I purchased a baby bearded  last week, brought it home have it set up heating temp is right feeding it crickets and dragon bites daily but tonight when i went in to check on her she was breathing funny like deep breaths and puffing out her beard but her eyes are closed like she s sleeping.  the only thing i could find on the net is that maybe its something respitory but i also notice she just started shedding around the bottom of her beard as well?

would you have any idea whats going on?  Theres not runny nose or anything around the eyes other than the shedding she looks clean.

Thnx in advance for any info

Kevin

Answer
Hi Kevin, I would strongly encourage you to have a vet take at look at her, it really sounds like she is in distress. Lethargic behaviour combined with laboured breathing are rather serious symptoms. If this came on suddenly is there any chance that she consumed a cricket that was too large? Cricket size is critical for baby beardeds, they should be no longer then the distance between the beardeds eyes. A large food item causes compression on internal organs and spinal cord, sudden paralysis of the back legs is another symptom.
I would not rule out something respiratory as well. Sometimes the only indication of mucous that you get is a slight clicking or rasping when they breathe. You may have to hold her right up to your ear to detect that.

I have linked a quick list of care guidelines, just in case you may have been given incorrect information along the line. The basking temperature can even range up a bit higher (100 - 110 F) then the range given here. Raising the temp. toward the upper edge of the optimal range is a good way to boost their immune system.
 
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