The Importance of Properly Rehoming Your Bearded Dragon

Rehoming a pet can be a tough decision, and if you own a bearded dragon, it’s essential that you do it properly. Bearded dragons thrive in a specific environment and need constant care, affection, and attention. They rely on you for their safety and welfare, which is why rehoming them is a massive responsibility. In this guide, we will take you through the essential steps necessary to provide your bearded dragon with a smooth and easy rehoming experience. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Determine Why Your Bearded Dragon Needs to Be Rehomed

Before you start looking for someone to take your bearded dragon, you need to establish why they need a new home. Some potential reasons could be:

• You have a busy schedule and can’t give them the attention they require
• You are moving somewhere where pets aren’t allowed
• You can’t afford their care anymore, or they need more than you can provide
• Your family doesn’t want them
• You have lost interest in them or find them overwhelming to care for

Once you have determined why you need to rehome your bearded dragon, you can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Find the Right Home for Your Bearded Dragon

The next step is to find the right home for your bearded dragon. Here are some options to consider:

Family or Friends

If you know anyone who is interested in taking care of a bearded dragon or knows how to handle one, they could be a great option. Make sure they

• Have experience with bearded dragon care
• Have an appropriate setup for them
• Are prepared for the long-term commitment of caring for your pet

Local Reptile Groups or Rescues

Reptile groups or rescues can be a great option if you can’t find anyone you know personally to take care of your bearded dragon. They often have knowledgeable and experienced caretakers who can properly care for your pet. Contact local reptile groups or rescues in your area to see if they are accepting new pets, and be sure to ask any questions you have about their care and accommodations.

Online Reptile Communities

There are many online communities dedicated to reptile enthusiasts, some of which offer adoption services. Make sure to do your research and find a reputable and trustworthy community or website that can help you find a safe and loving home for your pet.

Step 3: Prepare Your Bearded Dragon for the Move

Once you have found the right home for your bearded dragon, it’s crucial to prepare them for the move. Here are some steps to follow:

Notify Your Dragon’s New Caretaker

Inform your bearded dragon’s new caretaker of anything they need to know. These details could include their personality, dietary restrictions and preferences, medications, and the preferred way to handle them. Your dragon’s new caretaker should be well-informed to ensure they can continue to lead a happy and healthy life.

Transportation

Make sure your dragon is securely packed and safe during transport. If they are traveling by car, keep them in a well-ventilated, temperature-controlled container, and ensure they won’t shift during the journey. If they are traveling by air, research the specific airline’s pet policy to check if they allow reptiles on board.

Last-Minute Checkup

Schedule a last-minute checkup with a veterinarian before handing off your bearded dragon. This visit will confirm that they are healthy and free from any underlying health issues that could affect their new life or that of other pets in their new household.

Step 4: Accompany Your Bearded Dragon to Their New Home

When you finally bring your bearded dragon to their new home, be sure to spend some time helping them acclimate. These steps will ease them into their new life and ensure they adapt comfortably to their new setting:

Provide a Familiar Environment

Be sure to give your bearded dragon items that have been in their previous environment or things that have familiar smells to them. This should include climbing equipment, toys, plants, and decorations that they are used to.

Introduce Your Dragon Slowly

Introduce your bearded dragon slowly and gradually to their new environment. They will be nervous and stressed out, so take things slow and give them personal space to roam their immediate surroundings. Remember that they will need time to adapt to their new surroundings.

Step 5: Moving On

Rehoming a bearded dragon can be a difficult and emotional experience. However, by following these steps and ensuring you find them the right home, you will give your bearded dragon a second chance to thrive and live their best life.