Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just got a baby bearded dragon yesterday and the pet store sold me crushed walnut shells as a substrate. I fed him and I noticed that when he ate the crickets, he also ate some of the substrate. I read some websites, all of which said that crushed walnut shells would cause impaction. I removed him immediately, but he had already eaten probably 15 little pieces of shells. Today he's not nearly as perky and hasn't eaten anything or defecated. What do I do to help him??? He's very tiny - about six inches long including his tail. I feel so terrible.
Thanks for any help.

watch him carefully. If his back legs begin to "act funny" or if he doesn't perk up take him to a vet.

I hope you have removed the substrate. Paper towels are the choice for babies...easy to clean and no problems. When he is closer to adult size you have more options. If I were you I'd write a letter to the pet shop owner/manager explaining your frustration with the misinformation they are giving out. Most pet shops only try to keep the animals alive long enough to sell them...it is sad for the animals.

Keep reading as much as you can about beardies...we have had ours for almost a year and he is the best pet--even if he "belongs" to my daughter!

DM

I agree. Anyone who knows even just a little bit about bearded dragons knows that babies need to be on paper towels. That pet stores keep their babies on walnut shells or calcium sand and tell new owners this is fine, is unacceptable. I just don't know how these people sleep at night giving out information on things they know nothing about, and putting animals in danger. Definately, write them a letter.

As for your baby, you got good advice above. Soak him in warm (not hot) water for long periods of time, holding him upright. Stay with him so he isn't afraid in the water. If he doesn't poop and is still lethargic tomorrow take him to a vet ASAP.
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2.0 bearded dragons (Ocho / Domo-kun)
0.1 kingsnake (Rio)
1.0 ferret (Playstation)
1.0 cat (Wally)
0.1 dog (Tima)

You might also want to bump up your basking temp to around 110 to help with digestion.
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www.classylizard.com

And he's eating again today. We gave him baths and a little bit of mineral oil last night (at the suggestion of a different pet shop). He seems to be himself again. Thanks for the suggestions. I will definitely be writing the manager of the store.