After reading up on bearded dragon care, many pet owners are surprised at the complication and difficulty of owning such a pet. The needs of reptiles cannot even be compared to the needs of a cat or a dog – something that surprisingly few new dragon owners are prepared for.
Before You Buy a Dragon
The very first thing to consider is this: these dragons average a lifespan of 10 years, but can live to more than fifteen with proper care. Are your financial, housing, and work situations reliable enough to be counted on for more than a decade? Beardie upkeep requires a considerable amount of time and money. And since these pets become extremely attached to their owners, disowning one is just as bad as disowning a loyal puppy dog.
Ordinary veterinarians do not have the knowledge, resources, or equipment to care for reptiles. Before making a purchase, ensure that there is a quality veterinary herpetologist in your area that has experience with bearded dragon care specifically. Beardies are susceptible to many diseases, and surprisingly, pet stores are not required to warn consumers about a lack of qualified herp vets in the area.
Habitat, Supplies, and Necessities
Remember that bearded dragons are natives of a very specific habitat – one that is radically different from the typical modern family’s home. This environment can be very expensive to recreate in bearded dragon cages. Special UVB and heat lamps, dragon-specific substrate, live food, vegetables, fresh water, thermometers, and a large aquarium are just a few of the supplies needed.
Don’t fall for sweet-talking pet store salesmen and their claims that beardies are easy to care for. They make great family pets, but it takes research, education, and an immense amount of dedication and planning to ensure that your new addition will receive the proper bearded dragon care. Prepare yourself and give your dragon the best possible shot at a happy life!
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