Ok so the UVB is it a coil? If it is you need to replace it w/ a ReptiSun 10.0 fluorescent tube HO (Or Arcardia 12% in the UK). Compact or coil bulbs do not emit the proper amount of
UVB light for a bearded dragon, and should not be used. Other brands, such as the Zilla Desert Series and ReptiGlo have been known to cause eye problems and other health issues with bearded dragons, and should be avoided. The reason that some UVB lights (Zilla, ReptiGlo, coils/compacts, ect.) are considered dangerous is because the wavelength of UVB that they emit is shorter and more intense than the wavelength of the "safe" lights (ReptiSun, Arcadia).
UVB lights should be replaced every 6 months. The T5’s are a strong bulb and only need to be replaced once a year – the T 8 every 6 months--- where as the T 8 are not as strong—they need to be placed inside the tank the T 5 10.0 bulb approx 10-11 inches from basking spot – the T 8 approx 8-10 inches from basking spot—the cover needs to be off the bulb for full effect of the UVB rays-- for your baby to be healthy and grow please do this asap--- lighting in the tank is the crucial element for their health and overall behavior------------
I am so glad we got an employee on here of Petsmart now we can finally educate on good environment/husbandry to some one who can pass it on!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes you will need to upgrade to a bigger tank - like a 75-120 gallon tank w/ doors that open from the front --- just some FYI for you when you start looking - you need to get a Infrared heat gun from Walmart Home Depot or Lowes to get accurate basking temps-- my guess he has relocation stress at this time and may quit eating for a time but we will see --- I would switch him over to dubia roaches they are way better for him and dont cause parasites as crickets often do - I know Petsmart doesnt sell dubias or at least where I live but you can get them on line off Amazon and suppliers ship for free-- for substrate I would recommend either a texture non adhesive shelf liner or a slated ceramic tile bought from Home Depot or your local hardware store but I would wait till you have upgraded to your bigger tank --- all this information you can pass on to future bearded dragon buyers in the store --- REMEMBER GOOD HUSBANDRY IS KEY TO A HEALTHY DRAGON--- are you dusting his bugs w/ calcium D3 and vitamins?
Karrie