Beardie possibly infected with yellow fungus.

[Cupquakez]

Hey everyone,
I recently purchased a baby bearded dragon from a local pet store and he was housed with another beardie of the same age. Before I decided on my little guy, I inspected the both of them to ensure they were both in good health. Both had great appetites, extremely alert, clear eyes and mouth, regular skin, etc. Today when I went in to purchase crickets, I noticed his brother still there and he looked to have a yellow fungus of sorts. He had a dime size yellow bruise-like circle on his belly, as well as some yellow discolouration around the right side of his mouth.
I've only had my beardie for 6 days now, but my question is.. How likely is it that my beardie will contract the same infection, and would it be wise of me to return him since I'm still within the 14 day return policy? Would he show signs of symptoms anytime soon, or is it something that could pop up later in his life? I've grown quite attached to him already, but I'm very concerned. any help would be appreciated.

 

[ElimtheDragon]

Yellow fungus can be extremely contagious. Even if your beardie isn't showing symptoms, it is possible that he could still be infected. When I got my first beardie, he appeared to be in perfect health as did his cage mates. It took about a month for him to develop symptoms. In the meantime, all of the cage mates still at the store (who were receiving poorer care than mine) died. Depending on the store, they may allow you to return the beardie while they pay for the vet care (I worked at a Petsmart and we did this for a couple of guinea pigs with ringworm).

 

[Cupquakez]

Thank you for your quick response!
Do you think it would be beneficial to visit the vet despite him not showing any signs or symptoms of the fungus? I've spoken to the pet store and they're going to see what they can do as far as an extended warranty goes. At least then it gives me more time to monitor the situation before I decide if I will return him or not, which I really don't want to do. I wasn't aware of this infection until yesterday and it's so upsetting to me.

 

[ElimtheDragon]

Thank you for your quick response!
Do you think it would be beneficial to visit the vet despite him not showing any signs or symptoms of the fungus? I've spoken to the pet store and they're going to see what they can do as far as an extended warranty goes. At least then it gives me more time to monitor the situation before I decide if I will return him or not, which I really don't want to do. I wasn't aware of this infection until yesterday and it's so upsetting to me.

I'm not entirely sure if there is an "early detection" method with yellow fungus, but it would be safest course of action. As oral antifungals can be damaging to the liver, I'm not sure if the vet would prescribe as a preventative measure without being able to make a definitive diagnosis. But I would look into an excellent and experienced reptile vet.

 

[Cupquakez]

Well, fingers crossed that I'm given the extended warranty so I'm able to monitor him closely before I have to make that decision.
In the meantime, I will do some research to find a good reptile vet in my area, just in case. I like to think there's a chance he can come out of this unscathed, but most responses to my dilemma have been very bleak. Still going to remain optimistic, tho.

 

[ElimtheDragon]

Well, fingers crossed that I'm given the extended warranty so I'm able to monitor him closely before I have to make that decision.
In the meantime, I will do some research to find a good reptile vet in my area, just in case. I like to think there's a chance he can come out of this unscathed, but most responses to my dilemma have been very bleak. Still going to remain optimistic, tho.

I've heard that with prompt treatment, the disease can be successfully eradicated. Keep your hopes up!

 

[Cupquakez]

Thank you SO, so much!