Bearded Dragon Dead: Dealing with the Loss of Your Pet

Losing a pet is never easy, and it can be particularly difficult if it’s your beloved bearded dragon. As a beginner dragon owner, losing your pet can be devastating, but it’s important to understand that death is a natural part of life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss some of the reasons why your bearded dragon may have died, what to do when your bearded dragon dies, and how to cope with grief.

Why Did My Bearded Dragon Die?

Understanding some of the common reasons why bearded dragons die can help you prevent future health issues and ensure the best possible care for your dragon.

• Respiratory infections
• Metabolic bone disease
• Impaction
• Parasitic infections
• Fungal infections
• Stress
• Dehydration
• Overheating/underheating
• Foreign object ingestion
• Tumors

Your bearded dragon may have died due to one of the above factors, or a combination of them. While it’s important to make sure your dragon has the best possible care, sometimes things happen that are beyond our control.

What to do When Your Bearded Dragon Dies

Finding your bearded dragon has passed away can be shocking, but it’s important to react calmly and make sure your pet is properly taken care of.

1. Confirm that Your Bearded Dragon Has Passed Away

It’s important to confirm that your bearded dragon has actually died before taking any further steps. Signs of a deceased bearded dragon include a lack of breathing or heartbeat, absence of any movement or response, and a cold or stiff body.

2. Handle Your Bearded Dragon with Care

Your bearded dragon may become more fragile after death, so it’s important to handle them with care. Use gloves or a towel when moving your pet, and avoid dropping or mishandling them.

3. Decide on Aftercare

After your bearded dragon has passed away, you’ll need to decide what to do with their body. You can choose to bury or cremate your pet, or have them professionally disposed of. Check with your local vet, pet store, or animal control for guidance on your options.

Coping with Grief

Losing a pet, whether it’s a bearded dragon or any other type of animal, can be incredibly difficult to deal with. It’s important to give yourself time to grieve and process your emotions. Here are some tips on how to cope with the loss of your bearded dragon:

1. Talk to Someone

Reach out to a friend, family member, or pet grief support group to discuss your feelings and emotions. Talking about your loss can help you work through your grief and feel less alone.

2. Create a Memory Book

Gather photos, stories, and memorabilia of your bearded dragon, and create a memory book or scrapbook as a way to remember them. You can also make a memorial or tribute to your bearded dragon in your home or garden.

3. Take Care of Yourself

It’s important to prioritize your own self-care during this difficult time. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking time to exercise and care for yourself.

4. Consider Getting Another Pet

While it’s important to wait until you’re ready, getting another bearded dragon or pet can help fill the void of your loss and bring you joy and companionship.

Conclusion

Dealing with the death of a bearded dragon can be a challenging and emotional experience. However, with proper care and support, you can get through this difficult time and honor your beloved pet’s memory. Remember to take care of yourself, reach out to others for support, and consider honoring your bearded dragon in a special way that feels right for you.