Bearded Dragon Care & Information

Care Guide
https://beardeddragonowners.com/bearded-dragon-care-guide.html

Beginner Info about Bearded Dragons 

Video 44:10

https://youtu.be/guPB22jZtWg?si=nsbPh3qFaFp_imxC

Bearded Dragon Wikipedia https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pogona

Bearded dragons are amazing and loving creatures popular reptile pets known for their docile nature and unique appearance. Proper care is essential to ensure their health and well-being. Here are some key aspects of bearded dragon care:

1. Enclosure: Provide a spacious and secure enclosure for your bearded dragon. A glass terrarium is commonly used, with a minimum size of 40 gallons for an adult. The enclosure should be well-ventilated and have a secure lid to prevent escape.

2. Temperature and Lighting: Bearded dragons require a temperature gradient in their enclosure. Provide a basking spot with a temperature of around 95-105°F (35-40°C) at one end and a cooler area around 75-85°F (24-29°C) at the other end. Use a combination of heat lamps, ceramic heat emitters, and under-tank heating pads to achieve the appropriate temperatures. Additionally, provide a full-spectrum UVB light source to enable proper calcium metabolism.

3. Substrate: Choose a suitable substrate that is safe and easy to clean. Avoid loose substrates like sand or gravel, as they can cause impaction if ingested. Reptile carpet, ceramic tiles, or paper towels are better options.

4. Diet: Bearded dragons are omnivores, and their diet should consist of a variety of insects, such as crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms, as well as leafy greens and vegetables. Offer appropriately sized live insects a few times a week and provide fresh vegetables every day. Dust the insects with a calcium supplement before feeding them to your dragon.

5. Hydration: Provide a shallow water dish for your bearded dragon to drink from and soak in. However, bearded dragons obtain most of their hydration from their food, so misting or bathing them in lukewarm water a few times a week can also be beneficial.

6. Handling and Socialization: Bearded dragons can be handled, but it's important to approach them gently and support their body properly. Regular, gentle handling can help them become comfortable and reduce stress. Avoid grasping or squeezing their tails, as they can drop their tails as a defense mechanism.

7. Veterinary Care: Schedule regular check-ups with a reptile-savvy veterinarian to ensure your bearded dragon is in good health. A veterinarian can also provide guidance on any specific health concerns.

Remember, bearded dragons can live for 10-15 years or more, so committing to their long-term care is important. Researching and understanding their needs is crucial to providing a suitable and enriching environment for these fascinating reptiles.