Should I give up my bearded dragon?

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Bethany1999

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Hi there. So I've had the most amazing beardie for just over 2 years now, until recently, due to my families ill health I have found I don't have the time like I used to to care for my beardie, I wouldn't go as far to say I'm a bad owner but I know Im definitely not the best anymore, money has become super tight and I can't supply a constant food supply anymore. I need to know what you guy/girls think I should do, I love my beardie so much it; it breaks my heart to even think about him not being with me, but I don't want to be selfish with his life. And if giving him a new home means he'll be healthy and happy then it's what I should do right?
 

KarrieRee

BD.org Sicko
Beardie name(s)
Hiccup he is 6 and Blaze is 4
Life circumstances happen -- if you feel this way rehome him --- but make sure hes going to someone who is experienced -- no beginners --- rehome him as if he was your child --- interview people and ask lots of questions - see if you can put up fliers in your rescue centers or pet stores or vets offices - I would try and stay away from craigslist and FB -- you can find reptile groups I think on FB but you must interview these people and find out if they have experience w/ dragons -- you dont want him going to some one who has no experience w/ dragons and does not know how to take care of him - they need to know correct lighting temps for basking substrate what to use and not to use especially UVB lights -- that is my input some others on here can give you ideas too
Karrie
 

loljelloclowdz

Juvie Member
That’s very admirable of you to put your beardie’s best interests first. You might even be able to see if a zoo can use him to teach kids about animals in their camp programs (I know my local zoo takes beardies with them to kindergarten classrooms to teach kids about animals. My favorite was the giant millipede, lol.)

Emerald scales is another good option, and they take care of the interviews and stuff.
 

ComicBookMama

Sub-Adult Member
I agree that life issues can get in the way of caring for our pets, and when that's the case, rehoming them may be the best option. Particularly if you're facing financial constraints... you need a steady income to provide the best food and possible vet care to your dragon. You're doing the right thing - putting your pet's needs before your own feelings.

As Karrie mentioned, though, rehoming your pet can be a job in itself. You want to make sure your dragon is going to a well-educated home, not into a bad situation. Finding an established reptile rescue would be the easiest way to do this; they handle all the interviewing and adoption fees. Contact your dragon's vet to see if they know of anyone in your area, or contact the local herpetological society (most states have at least one). Even calling around to local animal shelters might provide some leads, though most are not equipped to take in exotics.

Try calling nature centers and science or children's museums that have live animals on the premises if you don't have a zoo nearby. Most of these places, including zoos, will not take pet donations- they are usually offered far more animals than they can take in each year- but they might know someone who could help you with rehoming.

I agree that you should definitely avoid Craigslist or Facebook for rehoming; they generally do not attract the quality of owner you want, and at worst are trolling grounds for people looking for an easy, cheap meal for a larger reptile or for people who want a free animal to torture and kill.

Good luck with finding your sweetie a good home!
 
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