Geriatric Bearded Dragon

Question
Twelve years ago, I purchased a young bearded dragon for my son. The boy has grown up and left the house, but I still have the beast.

During the last few months, the dragon has become lethargic. It might move from one rock to another every day or so. It eats about 1/4 of what it used to eat and it doesn't bother to chase it's food any more. Also, it's eyes appear to be protruding more than they used to.

Is this some form of hibernation, or is the animal just getting old. Is there a way to tell if it is suffering?

                                   Ron

Answer
Hi Ron,
First, congrats on keeping a beardie for that long.  Their average life span was 6-8 years, but in more recent years, they have been living for 8-10 years, and beyond..so 12 years is a very good life for a beardie.
It MAY be brumation..but given the age, it may be that he is just old and he's coming to the end of his life.
Its so hard to tell with reptiles if they are in pain.  If you can see him breathing and it seems labored in any way, that may be all the sign you get as to suffering.
The eyes protruding can be because he is dehydrated, or is loosing bone mass, same as people do as they age. It can also be a sign that his kidneys are starting to fail.  It may be time for a vet visit to see what, if anything needs to be done.
Generally, when it is a brumation issue, they tend to look for dark, cooler areas.
As long as he is still eating, pooping and seems content, then he most likely isn't suffering.