Bearded dragons are a relatively hardy pet for the beginner. They're usually very gentle by nature. I've never heard of
one biting someone. part of their appeal in the exotic pet trade is that they are fascinating to watch. Such antics as
head bobbing and waving are common and truly entertaining.
Bearded dragons do require some expensive care. Veterinary care for reptiles usually doesn't come cheap, And, their
is the expense of feeding your dragon. A baby bearded can eat as many as thirty to fifty crickets a day. As they get
older their diet varies more. They still need the protein of live food. But much of their dietary needs are filled by fresh
veggies. Endive lettuce, squash, collard greens and green beans are good for bearded dragons. But beware-just
because a food is green and leafy does not mean that its a good food for your reptile. Spinach tends to bind calcium
in reptiles and should their for never be offered to your lizard.
Bearded dragons require plenty of space. A fifty five gallon aquarium is ideal for a dragon. They need room to move
around and explore. I've heard of people trying to keep grown dragons in ten and fifteen gallon aquariums. I think
that idea is cruel. Who would want to spend their entire life in such cramped quarters?
Lizards need heat and the bearded dragon is no exception. The enclosure should have a hot end ranging between 95%
and 105%. Always leave part of the enclosure a little bit cooler so your pet can regulate its own temperature by
moving from one end of the tank to the other.
Most bearded dragons won't drink water from a dish. I know mine wouldn't hear of it. I fill a medicine dropper with water and
drip it onto my dragons nose once or twice a day to keep her from dehydrating. Most dragons will lick the water off of their
noses. In order to stay hydrated a bearded dragon should also be given a tepid bath once a week. The bath water level should
not go above the bottoms of your dragons chest. Bearded dragons will drown in deep water. Placing a wash cloth under
the dragons feet during bath time gives their claws something to dig into and adds to their sense of security.
Bearded dragons are such a rewarding pet if given the proper care they deserve.
