Bearded Dragon Boarding in Essex: Our Guide to Owning a Bearded Dragon

Owning a bearded dragon is not just about having a pet; it's about forming a connection with a fascinating creature and making sure you can provide them with as happy a life as possible. If you’re thinking of adding a bearded dragon to your life please do make sure you go to a reputable rescue to find your new family member, and take time to read this and other guides on how to provide the best care. Also do bookmark us for when you're looking for bearded dragon boarding in Essex - as part of Hopefield Animal Sanctuary we have exotic animal caregivers to give your beardie friend the best holiday ever.

Why Bearded Dragons?

Bearded dragons, affectionately called "beardies," are renowned for their approachable demeanor and engaging personalities. Native to Australia, their manageable size - usually reaching 18 to 24 inches - combined with a straightforward diet, makes them excellent rescued pets for those new to reptiles. We would actively encourage adopting one so as to discourage the exotic pet trade (as part of Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, we see endless cases of people buying exotic pets and then being unable to provide them with adequate care).

Creating the Ideal Habitat

Setting up a suitable home for your bearded dragon is the first step in your journey. A minimum of a 40-gallon tank is recommended for an adult dragon. Inside, recreate their natural environment. This includes:

Basking Area: This should maintain a temperature of about 100°F, allowing your dragon to regulate its body heat.
Cool Area: Offer a cooler side of approximately 75°F to provide a temperature gradient.

Incorporating platforms and hiding spots will allow your beardie to explore and feel secure. Providing a mix of sand or paper-based substrates can also help maintain hygiene.

Lighting and Heating

Proper lighting is essential for your bearded dragon’s well-being. UVB lighting enables the synthesis of vitamin D3, crucial for calcium absorption. Use a combination of basking bulbs (around 10-12 hours daily) and UVB lights.

Measurement: Ensuring the correct distance between the light and your lizard will help in evaluating exposure levels. Aim for 12-15 inches for most UV lights.

Keep track of the temperature using reliable thermometers in both the basking and cooler areas to ensure your dragon stays comfortable.

Diet: What to Feed Your Bearded Dragon

A well-rounded diet is vital for your beardie's health. You'll want to provide:

Leafy Greens: Collard greens and mustard greens make great staples.
Protein: Adult dragons should have protein sources such as crickets and mealworms.

Young dragons require a diet consisting of around 70% protein for growth. Dust their food with calcium and vitamin supplements to avoid nutrient deficiencies. Avoid feeding insects from the wild, as they might carry harmful parasites or pesticides.

Handling and Bonding

Bearded dragons are generally calm and easy to handle. It's best to let your new friend acclimate for about three days before handling them. When introducing your dragon to your hands, be gentle. Building a bond takes time; spending about 15-20 minutes daily is a step in the right direction to gain trust and forge a friendship. Bearded dragons become more relaxed and sociable with consistent interaction.

Common Health Concerns

Like any pet, bearded dragons can face certain health issues. Keep an eye out for:

Signs of Stress: These may include hiding, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): A common problem, often stemming from inadequate UVB lighting or calcium intake.

Regular veterinary check-ups, ideally every 6 to 12 months, can help catch any health concerns early and keep your dragon healthy.

Hopefield Boarding for Small Animals

Not only do we offer a bearded dragon boarding facility, but we're also happy to offer advice on your set-up and beardie care - just ask! We do love a beardie and we have several living their best life at the sanctuary, including Popcorn featured in this guide.