My bearded dragon's chapped lips won't go away. Should I see a vet?

Thanks for reaching out about Terra. Reptiles can often use melanin pigments as a form of the immune system. A minor wound such as scratch could of being the original trauma, Terra's immune system moved melanin to the area as a way to fight an infection. If the lesion gets bigger, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

That is certainly suspicious for an abscess. Harry will need to see a veterinarian for confirmation. Without proper veterinary care, the infection may spread. Ask your parents again to make an appointment with a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles. Discuss a payment plan with your parents. Agree to do more chores or special projects around the house to pay off the debt.

Poor Rosie! She may be shedding or she may have a localised infection or potentially it could be the result of a trauma. A check up is absolutely needed in these cases to determine the underlying cause of the problem and give appropriate treatment. Antibiotics may be needed. If you want to post a picture of the injury please request a consultation with one of the experts.

It is highly suspicious for an abscess or mouth rot. Ideally, she should be examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian for confirmation. Treatment may include draining or debridement. Antibiotics will almost certainly be required. In the meantime, increase tank temps by 5-10 degrees F to aid in healing. Make sure she continues to eat and soak her in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte to treat or prevent mild dehydration until she sees the doctor.

If there does not appear to be and lasting damage I would not worry too much about this. If however you notice Lincoln having any trouble eating or drinking I would take him in to be checked out. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

This may be an indication of infection (namely mouth rot) or a symptom of trauma. Mojo should be examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to make the diagnosis. Any treatment will depend on the diagnosis. In the meantime, keep him warm, hydrated and as stress free as possible. Make sure he continues to eat regularly. Have him seen as soon as you can get an appointment.

Look for redness, swelling, decreased appetite or excess salivation. The "crust" may be food crumbs, shed skin or substrate. A physical exam with your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet would be needed to definitively diagnose rot. In the meantime, make sure the enclosure is clean as poor husbandry can predispose a beardie to infection. High humidity can also promote bacterial or fungal overgrowth.