I think my bearded dragon is sick

Question
My Bearded seems very lethargic and he isn't eating.  I haven't seen any outward signs of illness, like build-up around the mouth or eyes.  The cage temperature is fine (89 degrees in the shade).  I'm using a calcium-based sand substrate...do you think there is any chance he ate some and is impacted?? My other bearded acts completely fine and is very energetic.  He is close to a year old (I don't know if age makes a difference).  I'm just really worried about him!!  Do you have any ideas?

Answer
Hey Amanda, calm down you probably have nothing to worry about. I am getting this questions A LOT lately. I am assuming it is cooling down where you live correct. Getting into those cold winter months. Reptiles don't hibernate but some like Bearded Dragons brumate. It is different but the same concept. They don't have to brumate but its more common in males over the age of 2 but happens for females and males of all ages. It is natural and nothing to worry about. He will tend to sleep more often, waking up only for food or to get near a basking light. They still need the warmth to digest the food so don't think about letting the heat lamp off. Just keep offering food daily if he doesn't eat it in 10 minutes take it out. Offer fresh veggies at all times. Keep the temps up and just let him do his thing. It can last over 3 months so don't worry about that. If you don't want him to brumate try to keep his lights on longer say 14-15 hours instead of the usuall 10-12. He knows that it is winter not by temperature fading (so don't worry about your temps) but by feeling pressure changes and shorter days. If you want more information let me know. I suggest removing the sand anyway though because you never really want to risk anything like impaction. It does happen and it is fatal if not caught early enough. So I suggest slate floor tiles or slate rocks. You can also use reptile carpet or vinyl/lenolium flooring. Good luck and let me know how it goes. If you don't think its brumation and you are still concerened let me know and I will get back to  you with other posibilities.