The Walmart Bearded Dragon: A Beginner’s Guide to Proper Care

Bearded dragons, also known as beardies, are popular pet reptiles that can live up to 15 years with proper care. They are known for their docile nature, easy-going temperament, and playful behavior. If you’re looking for a reptile pet that’s interactive and easy to handle, the Walmart Bearded Dragon might be the right choice for you.

Features of the Walmart Bearded Dragon

The bearded dragon is a native of Australia and can grow up to two feet in length. In the wild, they eat insects, vegetables, and fruits. At Walmart, you’ll find bearded dragons bred in captivity as pets. They can cost between $50 and $100 depending on the age and size of the dragon. Here are some features of the Walmart Bearded Dragon:

• Bearded dragons are docile and easy going. They are known for their friendly personality and social behavior.
• They can live up to 15 years with proper care, providing you with a long-lasting companion.
• They come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, and orange, making them a beautiful addition to your home.
• They are available for purchase at Walmart, making it easy to find and adopt the perfect bearded dragon.

Setting Up a Bearded Dragon Habitat

Before bringing home a bearded dragon, it’s important to have the proper habitat set up. This includes:

• A terrarium or tank that’s at least 40 gallons in size for one adult bearded dragon.
• A heat source, such as a basking lamp or ceramic heat emitter, to maintain the temperature at 95°F in the basking spot and 75°F on the cool side.
• UVB lighting to provide the dragon with necessary vitamins and minerals.
• A substrate, such as reptile carpet or paper towels, to cover the floor.
• Decorations such as rocks, logs, and plants, to provide hiding spots and climbing opportunities.

Feeding Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are omnivorous, which means they eat both insects and vegetation. Here are some tips for feeding your Walmart Bearded Dragon:

• Offer fresh vegetables and fruits every day. Some options include collard greens, squash, and apples.
• Feed insects twice a week, such as crickets, mealworms and waxworms. Remember to dust the insects with a calcium and vitamin supplement before feeding them to your dragon.
• Avoid feeding your dragon food that is too big, as it can cause impaction.
• Offer fresh water every day. A shallow water dish is recommended as bearded dragons don’t like to soak in water.

Bearded Dragon Health Care

Bearded dragons are generally healthy reptiles, but it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of illness. Here are some tips to keep your Walmart Bearded Dragon healthy:

• Provide a clean environment. Spot clean the enclosure daily and deep clean at least once a month.
• Watch for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and respiratory issues.
• Take your dragon to the vet for an annual check-up.
• Handle your dragon gently to avoid stress and potential illnesses.

Conclusion

Taking care of a Walmart Bearded Dragon is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. If you follow the proper care guidelines, you’ll have a long-lasting, healthy, and interactive companion. Remember, if you have any questions about caring for your bearded dragon, don’t hesitate to ask a professional or do your research. Properly taking care of your bearded dragon means a happy and healthy pet for many years to come.