Are you considering adopting a bearded dragon? These guys are actually becoming very popular, as more and more people are recognizing how cute and charming they are. You can of course always adopt an older beardie, but many people enjoy raising their pets themselves. Here, a Covington, GA vet offers advice on caring for baby beardies.
Choose a beardie that is active, alert, and paying attention. It should respond to stimuli. A potbelly isn’t a bad sign either: that means the little guy is well fed and growing. Be sure to go through a reputable store or breeder!
Eventually, your pet will need a fairly sizeable terrarium. For now, you can get one that is 20 gallons. (We don’t recommend going smaller, as it will be quickly outgrown.) If you just want to set your dragon’s permanent home up now, then we choose one that is at least 70 – 90 gallons. This can take up a sizeable chunk of space, so make sure you have the room before you go shopping!
Substrate is also very important. There are many different options, including cage liners, slate tile, reptile carpets, and paper towels. Avoid anything that has small pieces, such as sand or gravel. Baby dragons sometimes ingest these, which can cause serious, and potentially life-threatening, issues. Also, make sure your pet won’t snag his claws on his substrate.
Your lizard will need very specific environmental conditions. You’ll need to provide your scaled friend with both UVA and UVB lighting. The terrarium should also include a basking spot, which should be around 100 to 110F. The rest of the tank can be a bit cooler. This will of course require some special equipment. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Your tiny dinosaur will get bored sitting in a bare cage! Offer him things to climb and explore. Rocks, grapevines, caves, and climbing branches are all fine. Just make sure your lizard’s things are sturdy and don’t have sharp edges.
Baby beardies’ menus should consist of about 80 percent insects, such as mealworms, crickets, and waxworms, and 20 percent green veggies. (This ratio will eventually reverse.) You’ll also need to provide fresh water, both for drinking and soaking. Ask your vet for more information.
Please contact us, your Covington, GA vet clinic, anytime. We’re here for you!
