If you’re considering adding a bearded dragon to your family, you’re in for a treat! These fantastic creatures make lovely pets and can provide hours of enjoyment. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about owning a bearded dragon, from selecting the right one to taking care of them properly. It will also cover some of the people’s most common questions about these lizards. So whether you’re a first-time pet owner or looking for more information on bearded dragons, read on!
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The History Between Humans And Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons have been a part of human life for centuries. The first records of bearded dragons date back to the ancient Egyptians, who worshiped them as gods. In more recent history, humans have kept bearded dragons as pets worldwide. These lizards are relatively easy to care for, and their docile nature makes them ideal companions. However, bearded dragons are still wild animals, requiring special attention and care to thrive. As a result, owning a bearded dragon is a significant responsibility that you should not take lightly. By understanding the history between humans and bearded dragons, you can better appreciate the special bond people share with these amazing creatures.
Selecting The Right Bearded Dragon
When selecting the right bearded dragon for a pet, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, choosing an animal that is healthy and has a good temperament is essential. A healthy bearded dragon will have clear eyes, a rounded belly, and smooth skin. The animal should also be active and willing to interact with humans. Bearded dragons also come in various colors and sizes, so it is crucial to pick one that appeals to you. It would be best if you also considered the level of care your new pet will need. Some beardies are more high-maintenance than others, so be sure to research before making your final selection. You can find the perfect bearded dragon for your home with time and effort.
Provide A Proper Habitat
Bearded dragons are fascinating pets, and they can make excellent companions. If you’re thinking of adding a bearded dragon to your family, it’s essential to research their care needs so that you can provide them with the best possible habitat. First and foremost, bearded dragons need a large enclosure. A 20-gallon tank is the minimum size recommendation for an adult dragon, but larger is always better. The tank should have plenty of space for your dragon to roam and explore, as well as hiding places where they can feel safe and secure. Bearded dragons are climbers, so vertical space is just as important as horizontal space. In terms of temperature, bearded dragons need a warm environment. Their tank should have a basking spot reaching around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. You should keep the rest of the tank between 75 and 85 degrees. A good way to achieve this is to combine lighting and heating elements. UVB lighting is also essential for bearded dragons. This light helps them absorb calcium, which is necessary for their overall health. Bearded dragons need 12-14 hours of UVB light per day, so choosing a bulb emitting intense UVB rays is essential.
Feed Them A Healthy Diet
A well-fed bearded dragon is a healthy bearded dragon. Most importantly, a healthy diet for a bearded dragon includes a variety of live foods such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. It would be best if you also offered a good mix of vegetables like dark leafy greens, squash, and carrots daily. While you can give fruits as an occasional treat, too much sugar can lead to health problems for your bearded dragon. In terms of supplementation, calcium is essential for strong bones and should be dusted on live foods or veggies daily. Vitamin D3 is also necessary for calcium absorption and can be provided through natural sunlight or artificial UVB light exposure. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your bearded dragon will receive the nutrients he needs to stay healthy and thrive.
Keeping Them Clean
As any bearded dragon owner knows, these reptiles can make delightful pets. They are relatively low-maintenance and fascinating to watch as they go about their daily activities. But one of the most important things you can do to take care of your bearded dragon is to keep them clean. Bearded dragons are naturally inclined to bathe in dust or sand, but it’s important to provide them with a regular bath. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have become lodged in their skin or scales. In addition, bathing helps to stimulate the shedding process, which is essential for maintaining a healthy coat. While you can purchase special reptile baths, a simple Tupperware container filled with lukewarm water will also do the trick. Just be sure to supervise your pet while they’re bathing, as they may want to drink the water.
Cleaning Their Tank
Keeping your bearded tank clean is essential to their health and well-being. Not only does it prevent the spread of bacteria and disease, but it also helps to keep their environment free of potential hazards. However, cleaning a bearded dragon’s tank can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to start. Luckily, a few simple tips can help make the process easier. First and foremost, emptying and cleaning the tank regularly is essential. This means removing the substrate, decorations, and furniture from the tank and giving it a good scrub. Be sure to pay special attention to nooks and crannies where dirt and grime can build up. Once the tank is clean, you can replace the substrate, decorations, and furniture. It’s also important to change the water in your bearded dragon’s water bowl every week. Fresh, clean water is essential for their health, so give their bowl a good rinse before adding new water. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your bearded dragon’s tank clean and safe for them to enjoy.
Common Questions About Owning A Bearded Dragon
1) Can bearded dragons be left alone for a few days?
While they can technically survive on their own for a few days, leaving them unattended for extended periods is not recommended. Bearded dragons still require daily care and attention, including feeding and cleaning their tank. It’s best to have someone check on them or arrange for someone to take care of them while you are away.
2) Are bearded dragons friendly?
In general, bearded dragons can be very docile and even enjoy being handled by their owners. However, they can also become easily stressed and may display aggressive behavior if they feel threatened. Therefore, handling them with care and respecting their boundaries is essential to ensure a positive relationship.
3) How big do bearded dragons get?
On average, adult bearded dragons can grow to be about 18-24 inches in length. However, some may reach up to 30 inches or more. Therefore, ensuring that their enclosure is large enough to accommodate their size as they grow is crucial.
4) How long do bearded dragons live?
Bearded dragons can live for 8-12 years in captivity with proper care. With good nutrition and a healthy environment, they have the potential to live even longer.
Follow This Guide To Owning A Bearded Dragon
Owning a bearded dragon can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it’s important to do the necessary research and preparation before bringing one home. By providing them with proper care, including regular baths and clean living spaces, you can ensure that your pet has a long and happy life by your side. And if you have any problems or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a veterinarian specializing in reptile care. They can help tailor a care plan to fit the unique needs of your beloved bearded dragon.
