Neglected Beardie?

[Bogertophis]

55fingers, you have my sincere sympathy. In the past, I too rescued (took in) a sick bearded dragon to nurse him back to health- they are very high maintenance pets, as you know. Coincidentally (& not at the same time- I wasn't living "at home" when I got into reptiles) I also had a mother who was "never wrong or apologetic" about ANYTHING, among her other attributes so let's just say I understand your situation.

It's unfortunate that for whatever reasons of her own, you have a mother who cannot accept that her "child" might know more than she does. Sadly, that's unlikely to ever change, so rather than alienate your mother for the rest of your lives, please also consider that even with good care, bearded dragons have a lifespan in captivity that's typically from 10-15 years. Even if you called AC, it's unlikely they'd understand what neglect of a bearded dragon actually looks like, especially when it also means confronting "the parent".

None of us can fix everything we'd like to (especially when it comes to the vast # of animals needing rescue) & it would be great if you could at least count on your close family members to have the same caring outlook as you do, but that ship has sailed- you might be of some influence with siblings, but we pretty much have to accept our parents for who they are, flaws included.

If you can & still wish to try to buy this bearded dragon just to keep the peace, do so- but be realistic. It's painful that it's an animal you know- especially one that you've already helped in the past- so to see that once again it's being neglected (& yes, underfed) is really hard. But also realize that she may not live much longer, & it may be too late to change that.

She cannot say it but I can: thank you for all you've done to try to help her as much as you could. Some day (and it might be many years from now) you might find that your mother was also doing "the best she can"- even though it doesn't measure up in terms of animal care standards. Do your best to forgive her & move on for your sake- so you can put your amazing energy & heart where it can do the most good, because holding on to feelings of anger/etc. will actually hurt you, not her.