Picking Up Your Bearded Dragon
Posted on: 26 January 2017
If you just bought a bearded dragon, you are most certainly excited about sharing time with this new companion. This reptile is a great pet for both beginners and those who have had several other reptiles in the past. Soon after you acquire this reptile, chances are you will want to pick it up so it gets used to you as well as its new home. Here are some tips you can use to help your bearded dragon make the transition from a cage or aquarium dweller to a social pet.
Talk To Your Pet Whenever You Are Home
Your bearded dragon may seem a bit shy when you bring it into your home. It will need some time to adjust to its new habitat and the activities that take place within its view. It is a great idea to talk to your new pet as often as possible. When doing so, use a normal level of sound rather than speaking in whispers or yelling. This will allow your pet to get used to the tone you project on a regular basis. After a while, your reptile will perk up and lean its head in the direction of your voice.
Use Feeding Time As Together Time
When you feed your bearded dragon, make it a priority to remain within your new pet's view. It will soon associate your presence with the chance at getting a meal. While this may not seem like a good idea at first, in time it will relax when you are in the room as mealtime is sure to be presented shortly. Speak to your bearded dragon while it eats so it will also associate your voice with a pleasing activity.
Attempt To Lift Your Pet From Its Cage Or Aquarium
Wait a few days before attempting to pick up your new pet. This will give it time to get used to the sound of your voice and the feeding schedule you have selected. When you are ready to give handling a try, make sure it is at a time after your bearded dragon has eaten. At this time it will be relaxed and more apt to allow you to touch it.
Put on a pair of gloves to help keep your hands from getting scratched should your pet get nervous. Slowly move your hands into the reptile's aquarium or cage and pet your reptile with one hand. Move this hand underneath your bearded dragon's stomach and slowly guide the reptile out with the other. If your pet seems skittish during this process, remove your hands and try again the next day.
For more information, contact local professionals like Snakes at Sunset.
Share