Hi everyone
About a month ago I brought home my first bearded dragon, Waldo. I was in love instantly and I put in all my efforts into his care. However, I am devastated to say I recently had to put him to sleep as he was diagnosed with ADV and was just getting worse by the day (primarily because of a complete lack of appetite and ability to grow).
I admittedly had purchased him from a big brand name pet store and I regret not doing enough research on this virus and how common it can be especially in stores like this one. I am terrified of this ever happening again but I don't want my fears of this virus or other illnesses to scare me away from ever looking into bringing home another baby one day.
So, I want to know the best ways to look for healthy breeders. I know that it's almost impossible to find a breeder that is "ADV negative" or that can ensure "perfect health", but I just want some peoples opinions or experiences with their favorite and/or not so favorite breeders. Anything specific I should be looking for in breeders to increase the chances of having healthy baby? What kind of questions would you recommend I raise with a potential breeder? Or even just if anyone has had a similar experience, I would love to know how you went about things after the loss.
Thank you so much!
About a month ago I brought home my first bearded dragon, Waldo. I was in love instantly and I put in all my efforts into his care. However, I am devastated to say I recently had to put him to sleep as he was diagnosed with ADV and was just getting worse by the day (primarily because of a complete lack of appetite and ability to grow).
I admittedly had purchased him from a big brand name pet store and I regret not doing enough research on this virus and how common it can be especially in stores like this one. I am terrified of this ever happening again but I don't want my fears of this virus or other illnesses to scare me away from ever looking into bringing home another baby one day.
So, I want to know the best ways to look for healthy breeders. I know that it's almost impossible to find a breeder that is "ADV negative" or that can ensure "perfect health", but I just want some peoples opinions or experiences with their favorite and/or not so favorite breeders. Anything specific I should be looking for in breeders to increase the chances of having healthy baby? What kind of questions would you recommend I raise with a potential breeder? Or even just if anyone has had a similar experience, I would love to know how you went about things after the loss.
Thank you so much!