Are You Ready to Adopt a Bearded Dragon?

Bearded dragons are among the most popular reptile pets worldwide. These scaly, funny-looking creatures are friendly, docile, and relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginner reptile owners. If you’re considering adopting a bearded dragon, there are a few things to consider before diving into your decision.

The Cost of Owning a Bearded Dragon

Before you decide to bring a bearded dragon into your home, it’s important to understand the costs associated with owning one. While the initial adoption fee for a bearded dragon can vary depending on the source, the cost of caring for them is ongoing.

• Enclosure: Bearded dragons require a spacious terrarium or enclosure with a heat source, lighting, substrate material, and accessories like hiding spots, climbing structures, and basking areas. A good enclosure can cost up to $500 or more depending on the size and quality.
• Food: Bearded dragons are omnivorous and require a diet that consists of live insects, vegetables, and fruits. The cost of food can add up over time, especially since they require fresh produce and live insects daily.
• Veterinarian visits: Bearded dragons need to see a reptile veterinarian at least once a year for a check-up and any necessary vaccinations or treatments. The cost of these visits can vary but typically range from $50 to $100 or more.
• Other expenses: Other expenses associated with owning a bearded dragon include cleaning supplies, bedding, decorations, and other accessories. These costs can add up quickly and should be factored into your budget before adopting a bearded dragon.

The Time Commitment of Bearded Dragon Ownership

Taking care of a bearded dragon requires a significant time commitment, so it’s essential to consider your schedule before adopting one. Here are some of the time requirements of owning a bearded dragon:

• Feeding: Bearded dragons require food and water every day. Their diet is relatively easy to maintain, but you must ensure they have access to fresh vegetables, fruits, and live insects on a daily basis.
• Lighting: Bearded dragons require specific types of lighting to maintain their health, including both UVB and UVA lights. These lights need to be turned on and off according to a schedule, and the bulbs will need to be replaced periodically.
• Cleaning: Bearded dragons require regular cleaning of their enclosure to ensure they stay healthy, happy, and free from disease. You will need to clean their enclosure at least once a week, remove any feces or uneaten food daily, and replace their substrate material regularly.

Finding a Bearded Dragon to Adopt

Once you have decided to adopt a bearded dragon, you will need to find one to bring home. Here are some places where you can find bearded dragons for adoption:

• Reputable breeders: Reputable bearded dragon breeders produce healthy, well-adjusted, and socialized bearded dragons. They may be more expensive to adopt from than other sources, but they often provide valuable information and support resources.
• Pet stores: Pet stores are a source for bearded dragons, with prices that are typically less expensive than breeders. However, pet stores are not always up to date on the latest care information and may not have the healthiest animals.
• Rescue organizations: Bearded dragons may end up needing rescue if their previous owners could no longer care for them. Rescue organizations provide a second chance for bearded dragons to find a forever home, and often offer adoption fees that are lower than from breeders.
• Online classifieds and forums: Online forums and classifieds offer a range of bearded dragons for adoption, but it’s essential to vet any potential sources before bringing a bearded dragon home. You should always inquire about the animal’s background, health history, and previous care before adoption.

Preparing for Your New Bearded Dragon

Before bringing your bearded dragon home, you will need to ensure that they have a proper enclosure setup and that you are prepared to provide them with proper care. The following are some things you should consider when preparing for your new bearded dragon:

• Enclosure setup: Your bearded dragon will need a terrarium or enclosure with proper heating and lighting sources, a comfortable substrate material, and plenty of accessories to climb or hide in.
• Food and water: Your bearded dragon will require fresh vegetables, fruits, and live insects daily. You will also need to provide them with a bowl of clean water every day.
• Reptile vet: Find a reputable reptile veterinarian in your area who can help you ensure your bearded dragon’s health is maintained.
• Handling: Bearded dragons are social animals, and they enjoy being handled. However, it’s important to familiarize them with their new surroundings before handling them.

Final Thoughts on Bearded Dragon Adoption

Bearded dragons are unique and social pets that make excellent companions. They do require some time, effort, and money to care for them properly, but they offer endless enjoyment and affection in return. If you decide to adopt a bearded dragon, you’ll be rewarded with years of friendship, entertainment, and boundless love!

Adopt a Bearded Dragon Today!