Can my human laryngitis spread to my bearded dragon when I handle him?

There is a high risk of salmonellosis with all reptile species, however this risk can be minimised by careful hygiene techniques. If you ensure to wash your hands after contacting the beardie or its habitat this will help greatly. Try and avoid washing any of the tank contents near food preparation areas also.

I'm sorry to read about the loss of your mouse. It is not likely Puff would catch a respiratory infection from a sick mouse. If he is showing symptoms of illness (lethargy, decreased appetite, raspy breathing or gaping), then he should be examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Respiratory infection typically requires prescription antibiotics for treatment. You will need to get these from your vet after an exam and diagnosis.

Confirm proper temperature and humidity. Incorrect environmental parameters may lead to respiratory infections. Provide adequate UVB lighting or unfiltered sunlight also. UVB light is critical to vitamin D metabolism and general health. Dragons cannot vomit and coughing may indicate an upper respiratory infection. This can be serious if not treated appropriately and promptly. Legally, we are prohibited from providing doses for medications in the absence of a physical exam and VPCR (veterinarian-patient-client relationship). Your veterinarian should be able to consult with a reptile specialist via phone or online and can then dispense or administer medication if indicated. You can review dragon care at the link below. www.anapsid.org/bearded.html

Confirm correct cage temps and humidity levels. Ideally, a thermometer and hygrometer should be placed at each end of the encosure. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite or discharge from the eyes or nose. These can all indicate respiratory infection. Have her examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose infection or injury. More information regarding environmental parameters can be found here: http://www.anapsid.org/bearded.html

Thanks for reaching out about Drago. Check and correct husbandry including environmental temperature and UVB exposure. If too cold, metabolic, appetite and immune systems are suppressed. Try offering vegetables by hand or pureed through a syringe. Open mouth breathing could be a respiratory infection, enlarged internal organ or metabolic concern. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. A diagnosis early in the problem, usually has a better prognosis. Good luck.

He should be examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian. The symptoms described may indicate a respiratory infection. The vet can confirm or rule out this possibility then dispense antibiotics if necessary. In the meantime, increase ambient temperature by about 5-10 degrees F to aid in recovery. Make sure he stays hydrated and continues to eat normally.

To be 100% safe you shouldn't handle him as yes they can harbour many viruses and bacteria. No the pet shop wont test him for anything unless he is unwell. Many of the dangerous organisms to you will be normal for tye chameleon. If you do want to handle him your safest although not risk free option would be to completely avoid cleaning the tank or touching faeces. You can hold him but only in your hands and wash them thoroughly afterwards.