Heat mat on side of tank

[IcyGoats]

My dragon is arriving at his new home in 4 days, and my ceramic heat bulb fixture and guard will most likely not be delivered by that time. I do have a heat mat, 20w I believe, and I know not to place it under a bearded dragon's vivarium, but I have read that applying it to the side would be okay.

Any thoughts on this?

 

[IcyGoats]

Bump.

 

[vickson420]

Hi
In theory yes you could place it on the side of the tank but it would have to be in an area where he cant press himself against it.I wouldnt even bother.It is better for them to just get their heat source from above.

 

[IcyGoats]

Yes, I undertand that. But the necessary components for the ceramic heater probably won't arrive on time, so I need something to keep night temperatures up until it is delivered.

 

[Seven65]

How cold does it get at night? Below 65 degrees?

 

[IcyGoats]

Yes, it gets down to around 60.

 

[Embee]

We used a heat mat on the side of the tank temporarily for a similar reason, and it was fine. I just made sure that there nothing to lure beardie to that particular area to sleep... such as her favorites, plants. I kept it clear of anything she'd want to be on or under so that she wouldn't be tempted to fall asleep in that area/with her body against the glass, as she was prone to do in those days.

The best,
Em