Bearded Dragon Veterinary Care in Alhambra
Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are one of the most popular reptile pets in Southern California — and one of the most misunderstood when it comes to their health needs. Unlike dogs and cats, bearded dragons have highly specific dietary, lighting, and environmental requirements. When those needs are not met, they can develop serious — and sometimes fatal — conditions.
At South Pasadena Animal Hospital, we provide comprehensive veterinary care for bearded dragons at our Alhambra clinic. We see new patients without referrals, and we offer same-week appointments for sick or injured beardies whenever possible.
Common Health Problems We Treat
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
MBD is one of the most common and serious conditions we see in bearded dragons. It is caused by insufficient UVB lighting and/or calcium and Vitamin D3 deficiency. Signs include soft or deformed limbs, tremors, inability to lift the body, and pathological fractures.
Early treatment is critical. Mild to moderate MBD can be reversed with proper husbandry changes and calcium/D3 supplementation. Severe cases may require hospitalization and supportive care.
Impaction
Impaction occurs when a bearded dragon swallows material — loose substrate, large feeder insects, or foreign objects — that becomes lodged in the digestive tract. Signs include straining to defecate, bloating, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Impaction is a medical emergency that can be fatal without prompt treatment. We offer X-rays and supportive care, including warm water soaks, fluids, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections are common in bearded dragons kept at temperatures that are too low or in enclosures with high humidity. Symptoms include open-mouth breathing, wheezing, mucus from the nostrils, and lethargy. We diagnose respiratory infections with physical examination and may recommend blood work or X-rays. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and husbandry correction.
Parasites
Both internal and external parasites are common in bearded dragons, particularly those acquired from pet stores or breeders. We screen for parasites with a fecal exam at your dragon's first wellness visit and recommend annual screening thereafter. Common parasites include pinworms, coccidia, and adenovirus.
Infectious Stomatitis (Mouth Rot)
Mouth rot is a bacterial infection of the gums and mouth lining. It usually begins as a small area of redness or swelling near the teeth and can progress to necrotic tissue, tooth loss, and spread to internal organs. Signs include difficulty eating, excessive saliva, yellowish discharge in the mouth, and loss of appetite. Treatment includes antibiotics and, in advanced cases, surgical debridement.
Yellow Fungus Disease
Yellow fungus is a serious, often fatal fungal infection caused by Nannizziopsis species. It presents as yellow or brown discoloration of the scales, often starting on the extremities, and spreads rapidly into deeper tissue. Early detection and aggressive antifungal treatment give the best prognosis.
- Refusal to eat for more than 2 weeks (outside of brumation)
- Soft, rubbery, or deformed limbs
- Straining without producing a bowel movement
- Open-mouth breathing or audible wheezing
- Black beard that does not resolve, or persistent lethargy
- Any swelling, discoloration, or wounds on the skin
Preventive Care & Annual Wellness Exams
The best way to keep your bearded dragon healthy is through regular wellness exams. We recommend an annual exam for adult beardies and twice-yearly exams for juveniles (under 18 months) and seniors (over 5 years).
At each wellness visit, we assess:
- Weight and body condition score
- Hydration status and muscle tone
- Eyes, ears, nostrils, and mouth
- Skin and shed quality
- Limb strength and spine alignment
- Parasite screening (fecal test)
- Enclosure setup and husbandry review
We also provide guidance on UVB lighting schedules, temperature gradients, calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation, and appropriate feeder insect and vegetable ratios — because most bearded dragon illness is preventable with proper husbandry.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
To help us give your bearded dragon the best care, please bring:
- A fecal sample (collected within 24 hours of the appointment) in a clean, sealed container
- Photos or a description of your dragon's enclosure setup (tank size, UVB bulb brand and age, temperatures)
- A list of what your dragon eats and any supplements used
- Any previous veterinary records if available