If you are looking for an exotic pet sitter or a bearded dragon vacation feeder, consider finding a Housesitmatch pet sitter. Many of our sitters are used to petsitting a bearded dragon as part of their remit, and offer this as an exchange of services for free accommodation. It saves money and you meet new people in the process. Read on to learn more.

Petsitting a Bearded Dragon: A Comprehensive Guide

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make great pets. These docile lizards are known for their unique appearance, calm demeanor, and relatively low-maintenance needs. 

If you have been entrusted with the responsibility of looking after someone’s pet bearded dragon. There are a few important things you need to know to ensure the animal remains healthy and happy during your care.

1. How to monitor behavior and health while petsitting a bearded dragon

One of the most important things you can do as a caretaker of a bearded dragon is to monitor its behavior and overall health. 

Bearded dragons are known for being relatively hardy creatures, but they’re still susceptible to a variety of health problems. 

When petsitting a bearded dragon, you should observe its behavior daily to ensure that it is, eating, drinking, basking, and defecating.

If you notice any changes in the dragon’s behavior or appearance, such as;

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Skin abnormalities
• Constipation 

You should contact the owner immediately and seek veterinary advice.

2. What to feed bearded dragons

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal matter. A healthy diet for a bearded dragon should consist of a variety of insects, such as:

• Crickets, 
• Mealworms
• Roaches
• Fresh fruits and vegetables

When petsitting a bearded dragon, it’s important to stick to their usual feeding routine and provide them with the foods they’re accustomed to. Make sure to provide fresh water daily and clean out the food dishes regularly.

3. How often to feed bearded dragons

Bearded dragons are typically fed once or twice a day, depending on their age and size. Young bearded dragons require more frequent feedings than adults, and the amount of food they consume should be proportional to their size. 

Generally, you should feed a bearded dragon as much as it can eat in 10-15 minutes, and remove any uneaten food from its enclosure after that time.

Always provide food no bigger than the space between the bearded dragon’s eyes to prevent choking.

4. How to hold bearded dragons

Bearded dragons are generally easy to handle, but they can become stressed if handled improperly. So if you are visiting and petsitting a bearded dragon bear this in mind. 

When picking up the pet, remember it’s important to approach them from the side slowly, gently and avoid sudden movements that could startle them. 

Support their body and all four legs and tail with your hands and be careful not to grip them too tightly.

When handling a bearded dragon, it’s best to keep them close to your body and avoid exposing them to bright lights or loud noises.

5. Temperature and lighting requirements

Bearded dragons are cold-blooded creatures and require specific temperature and lighting conditions to thrive. 

The enclosure should be kept at a temperature between 75-100°F during the day, with a basking spot that reaches 95-100°F. At night, the temperature can drop to 70-75°F.

When petsitting a bearded dragon you also need to know that they also require exposure to UVB lighting, which helps them to synthesize vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. The lighting should be on for 12-14 hours a day and should be replaced every 6-12 months or according to the manufacturer’s guidance.

Petsitting a bearded dragon in summary

In conclusion, looking after or petsitting a bearded dragon, someone’s prized exotic pet, requires responsibility and attention to detail.  You can succeed by following these guidelines on:

• How to monitor behavior and health
• What to feed Bearded Dragons
• How often to feed Bearded Dragons
• How to hold Bearded Dragons
• The temperature and lighting requirements 

And if you are looking for petsitter for exotic pets you should also consider the source of your petsitters. Housesitmatch has sitters who are experienced in the care of unusual pets with special needs.

You can ensure the Bearded Dragon remains healthy and happy during your care. Remember to always consult with the owner if you have any questions or concerns about their pet’s well-being.

FURTHER READING ON DOMESTIC AND EXOTIC PET CARE

At Housesitmatch.com we always try to share useful and informative blogs and practical advice with our members. Read on to find some helpful articles on how to keep a pet healthy, with useful tips for pet owners and petsitters about housesitting and petsitting.

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