Christmas 2003-My daughter/animal lover, saves 150 dollars to buy a chameleon. We purchased Pudge in a pet store in Fresno California, and instantly fell in love with her. She made the 750 mile journey home to Portland Oregon with us, and set up residence in our living room. Despite the fact that she shared our house with 3 dogs and 2 ferrets, she adjusted well and grew strong.
We searched the web and learned everything we could. We feed crickets dusted with Ca and vitamins. We misted her cage twice daily, replaced her UVB light every six months and cleaned her cage frequently.
The tounge was a crowd pleaser...and Pudge put on many shows for guests, proving that she was quick and accurate...not to mention deadly. When the dogs came near (black labs), her bars would turn nearly the same color. She was truely beautiful.
Christmas 2005-We, ironically, returned to California for the holidays. We left Pudge in the caring hands of my mother her in Oregon. Despite the fact that she refered to her as a "gecko", she did exactly as instructed. When we returned home, Pudge wasn't the same. She was "layed out" on the bottom of her cage, and within a few days showed signs of dehydration. Thanks to the advice I received from this forum...I located a herp vet a had her seen. After a shot of Vitamins and a bolus of fluid, Pudge came home for us to care for her. We tediously medicated and fed, day in and day out. Ensured that her enviornment was appropriate. We did all we think we possible could have...
Yesterday-Pudge seemed well, actually on the mend. She had been defecating...the food was passing through. She still seemed weak...but I knew it would be a long road. She drank then went to bed.
Today-This morning, she rolled her eyes and looked at me when I turned on the lights. I would head to the pet store to get waxworms after work, maybe she would like those. I would keep up the vigilance...she was strong and hanging on...
Tonight-I stopped by home to check on her before going to the store...Pudge was on the bottom...on her side...Pale and motionless. I knew immediately...I picked her up and she rolled her eyes and gazed at me again...then closed them forever. We held and stroked her skin during the final last moments of her life...
Tomorrow-We will lay her to rest in the backyard, next to Taco and Bobert (the Beta's). We will try to be brave and maybe, just maybe get another chameleon. Not to replace her...but to continue on with one of the most interesting and fascinating pets I have ever owned.
Thank you to all, especially the "locals" that have been following her story. And thank you for allowing me to express my feelings and my sorrow. I know to you all...she was not just another lizzard.
RIP PUDGE
