Dear Miss Behavin’: My friend can’t care for their bearded dragon any longer and gave him to me. I want to keep him, but I don’t know what he’ll need to be healthy. Any tips on how to start taking care of a bearded dragon?
Bearded dragons can make a good first-time reptile pet. They are generally easy to care for and can live up to 10 years of age. Make sure the enclosure is as big as possible and able to be easily disinfected. Heat lamps and external heat sources are required to maintain health and support their immune system. Make sure the temperature is 80-85 degrees on one side and 90-95 on the other so there is a temperature gradient in his enclosure. Always use temperature readers on both ends to ensure proper temperature. A basking light is also needed with a metal reflector so the dragon can warm itself. Incandescent light, sunlight, or plant lights are NOT acceptable alternatives. They are omnivores but it is recommended for them to be mostly herbivorous as an adult. Calcium-rich veggies like kale, collards, turnips, and chard should be at least 40% of their diet. Iceberg lettuce should not be used since it has no nutritional value. Waste should be removed daily and dishes should be regularly washed as dirty enclosures can grow fungus and make your bearded dragon ill. Your dragon should be seen by a qualified exotic veterinarian at least once a year. Do not delay seeing a vet if your bearded dragon seems ill, as it can become serious very quickly. As with all pets, do as much research as possible, and then do more! You want to ensure you are prepared for this type of pet and its needs.