Bearded dragon and chemo.

[Zigstaa]

Hi there wondering if you could help me. my mother is just about to start chemotherapy, (only as a precaution so no need to worry). However i was just about to buy myself a bearded dragon and after doing some research some people have said that it is fine and others have said to avoid them at all costs, any advice?

 

[CooperDragon]

Is your question about buying a dragon or if having a dragon near someone going through chemo OK? If you are asking about getting a dragon I'd encourage it as long as you have the money to buy food and proper equipment (it's not terribly expensive (hundreds) but not cheap either). I don't see why having a dragon near someone going through chemo treatment would be problematic.

 

[Zigstaa]

Is your question about buying a dragon or if having a dragon near someone going through chemo OK? If you are asking about getting a dragon I'd encourage it as long as you have the money to buy food and proper equipment (it's not terribly expensive (hundreds) but not cheap either). I don't see why having a dragon near someone going through chemo treatment would be problematic.

Its more about whether the reptile would make my mother ill..

 

[CooperDragon]

Ah OK. I wouldn't think so. The illnesses they can pass along are things like salmonella which are transferred when in contact with their poop. This is very uncommon from what I've seen but if you take extra care to wash your hands well after handling your dragon or cleaning the enclosure etc. I would think the risk of transferring illness would be minimal.

 

[AHBD]

I agree that it's O.K as long as you are VERY vigilant concerning hygiene. Never ever put your dragon in the sink or bathtub like many people do and be sure that you always wash hands well before touching any food or household things that your mom would use. Keep feeder insects away from her as well, they can also carry disease.

Hope your mom will be just fine.