The Ultimate Guide to Bearded Dragon Cost per Month: A Beginner's Handbook
Introduction
Bearded dragons are some of the most popular pets around the world because of their unique appearance and friendly demeanor. If you are a beginner at owning a bearded dragon, then you will find that it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, it is important to note that owning a bearded dragon comes with financial responsibilities, including taking care of its basic needs and medical expenses.
Bearded Dragon Cost per Month
The bearded dragon cost per month can vary depending on where you live and the species of the bearded dragon you choose to adopt. However, there are basic expenses that you should plan for, including:
- Enclosure
- Lighting/heating
- Food
- Accessories
- Medical expenses
Enclosure
The enclosure is one of the most significant expenses when owning a bearded dragon, and it should meet certain criteria to provide a good living environment. The enclosure should be no less than 40 gallons or 2 x 1 x 1 meters in size if you have an adult dragon. Another thing to note is that screen enclosures should not be used as they can stress out your dragon and cause dehydration.
Lighting/Heating
Bearded dragons require UVB lighting to maintain healthy bones and metabolize calcium. UVB lights need to be replaced regularly; most need to be replaced every six months. Different heating options are available, including ceramic heat emitters, basking bulbs, and under tank heaters.
Food
Bearded dragons are omnivores that consume both insects and vegetables. An adult bearded dragon should be fed insects such as crickets and Dubia roaches 2-3 times per week, while vegetables should be provided daily. Insects can be expensive, so it is recommended that starting cultures to raise insects is more cost-effective in the long term.
Accessories
Bearded dragons need a variety of accessories to lead a healthy and happy life. Some of these accessories include substrate, basking branches, hiding spots, and water dishes. These accessories need replacement periodically to avoid the development of bacteria and other health issues.
Medical Expenses
Bearded dragons require vet visits from time to time to keep them healthy. Visiting your vet regularly can catch problems early and ensure your pet remains healthy. Medical expenses are one of the major expenses to plan for and should be added to your monthly budget.
Conclusion
Owning a bearded dragon can be an amazing experience for any beginner, but it can be expensive. The essential things to remember when planning for bearded dragon ownership are the expenses associated with owning and maintaining a bearded dragon. You’ll need to plan out a budget that takes into account everything that your pet needs, from food and housing to veterinary care, so that you can provide the best living conditions for your pet.