jump!

[Megg002]

I got my baby beardy about 5 to 6 months ago, from a very untrustworthy pet store, but shes doing excellent and shes had no problems. Shes a very happy, and a tiny bit spoiled.
Im just having problems with handling her. She likes to move around a lot, and shes jumped off my hand a few times. I got her a little basket for when I take her outside, I dont trust her, she loves to jump off things. Even when we're in the house, Im worried she'll jump off my hand. I have two fair sized dogs in the house that I know will have no second thoughts about "playing" with her to death. Im wondering if there's any little tips or tricks I could use to prevent her from constantly jumping off my hand..
Im a first time owner of a bearded dragon so if there are any other neat tips, or advice you feel like giving, it would be very nice of you all!

 

[redflea13]

As they get older they tend to calm down. They do make harnesses for dragons.

 

[Ethelia]

Hi there,
Dont worry babies do tend to be nervy little devils.
Dex was a jumper when i first got her. It just stems from them being a little unsure of you.

There are a few things you can do to try to get your little one comfortable with you:

It can really help to find an old item of clothing of yours which smells like you and leave it in the tank. This way she will become used to your smell in a non threatening manner so when she comes to you you will smell warm and familiar.
Always avoid wearing aftershave or smelling like food.

You can also handle her an hour or so after lights out when she'll be sleepy and bored of fighting. At this time you can try the 'beardie burrito'. this involves wrapping your beardie in a blanket/towel like a newborn baby and laying them on your chest. If she doesnt like the beardie burito try wearing a dressing gown, alot of beardies enjoy softness. Dexter loved mine.

When you begin to start trying to handle your little one during daytime id get her out, and let her run around near you, like on the bed or on the floor in a room (close the door and make sure all gaps are blocked with cushions/pillows). She'll get used to just being near you and learning that your not big and scary. Also if she runs around exploring she'll tire herself out and so will be more submissive when you finally pick her up.


Although you might end up getting a few scratches as she squirms to run away it is VERY important not to just put her down if she struggles. She will learn that fighting gets her her own way and will make the process longer and harder.

Hope this helped.
Holly