So I am wanting to get my first beardie but the only place that sells them within a couple hours away is a Petco. I walked in to check it out and 3 of the 4 dragons were relatively active. One was basking on a log and moved towards the glass when I walked by. Another was climbing on a plant and watched me as well. The third ran around a bit and also reacted to me. However, the fourth one was obviously unhealthy- it was not sitting up like the others when I held it so it sort of just layed limp on my hand, was noticeably smaller and skinnier, did not react even when I tapped the glass, and didn't move anything other than its head the whole time. I am just curious, what is the chance this bearded dragon is infected with something putting the other 3 at a higher chance of also becoming sick and unhealthy? Should I just have one shipped from a reputable breeder or take the chance with Petco?
So I am wanting to get my first beardie but the only place that sells them within a couple hours away is a Petco. I walked in to check it out and 3 of the 4 dragons were relatively active. One was basking on a log and moved towards the glass when I walked by. Another was climbing on a plant and watched me as well. The third ran around a bit and also reacted to me. However, the fourth one was obviously unhealthy- it was not sitting up like the others when I held it so it sort of just layed limp on my hand, was noticeably smaller and skinnier, did not react even when I tapped the glass, and didn't move anything other than its head the whole time. I am just curious, what is the chance this bearded dragon is infected with something putting the other 3 at a higher chance of also becoming sick and unhealthy? Should I just have one shipped from a reputable breeder or take the chance with Petco?
I've only heard negative stories about Petco beardies. They're typically not very well looked after, and employees will give bad advice (and even lie about the animal's health) to make a sale. I'd definitely look up a reputable breeder, to save yourself (and your wallet in vet bills) the heartbreak.