I think it was mentioned, but actually mealworms are really a no-no at any age. Even though the impaction risk diminishes at 16 inches, they still aren't very nutritious. At 16 inches you can introduce super worms, though.
Just spoke to the vet. He's doing we'll, pooped ALOT abou half an hour ago. They are going to have the vet call with more deas in a bit.
They did say to start him on calcium and vitamins once he's home again. I'm buying a better lighting system and the calcium and vitamins tomorrow. And no more mealworms!
Spyro is home now and doing better. He had a large defecation last night at the vets (he had a sleepover with them) and another this morning. Looks like everything is out and he has eaten some as well. He mostly slept today, which I would guess is normal given how bad he's felt. Vet gave us some baby food with protein to help him strengthen. Any idea how to get him to eat from a syringe?
Will call vet in am with an update and to get some better guidance for him.
While he was there they gave him a calcium injection and some vitamins to, mostly to help with his fatigued state. He's wrapped in a warm towel and bedded down for the night.
Thank you everyone for all the guidance!
I posted a lot in Napoleon's thread in the Infectious Disease section about my struggle to administer foul tasting medicine and syringe feed formula mixed with an assortment of different bearded dragon friendly foods. Honestly, she loves it. I start with a dollop on the middle tip of her snout over her lips, and Napoleon usually starts licking. Sometimes I make "nom nom nom" smacking sounds... Yeah I'm a dork. On occasion, it takes her a bit (several minutes or longer) to start licking, when she does, start squeezing a bit more onto her lip area (never into the front inside her mouth, they can aspirate). The most important thing is to relax! I was so nervous the first 2 times that I was shaking uncontrollably... This really doesn't help (it's a miracle that Napoleon didn't have shaken beardie syndrome)! If I learned to syringe feed a baby bearded dragon... Anyone can! You'll sort out quickly what works for your dragon, how thick she likes the formula, and how she wants to be held or not held while she syringe eats.
Best wishes,
Shara and sleeping Napoleon (she just went to sleep!)
I'm afraid Spyro is no longer with us. I had given him another bath and tried to feed him again with no luck. I put him back in his warm towel and laid him down in his tank. An hour later I went to check on him and he wasn't breathing and was stiff.
Thank you everyone for your help; it was his time I guess. I hope he has lots of crickets to chase wherever he is now.
My Girl will stiffen up when i touch her at times, being hes so young could be that he is just unsure and if your coming from above him you could be scaring him, I realy hope your guys pulls thru! And do keep us updated.