I wanted to know what you all recommend for keeping track of the temps & humidity levels in the tank. I have those goofy gauges that stick on plus I have a point and click Zoomed digital reader...but I'd like something more consistent. I do have that Exoterra large 38x18x18 tank that comes equipped with a section on the top for their digital readers...anyone use those?
also wanted to know what is a good way to keep his bath warm. I use a stone pond that I pour warm water into but I can only do so much of that without it getting too full or Pogi feeling panicked by the rising water. Can I place it on one of those tank heating pads? The longer it stays warm the more willing he is to sit in it, but as soon as it starts to chill he is scampering up my arm. I'm lucky if I get at least 5 minutes of a soak with him.
As far as temperature reading goes, I suggest you get either a digital thermometer with a probe, or a temp gun. Both of those are relatively cheap, and can be found at your local Wal-Mart, if not at the pet store. (I got mine at Petco, it is a simple ZooMed Digital Thermometer with a probe. It is little and convenient, the thermometer sticks to the outside of the tank with a suction cup. The probe can be moved wherever, though I tend to keep it near the basking spot to ensure temps are where they should be)
I do my baths a little different than yours. I actually use my bathroom sink, and for particularly long baths the cool water can be drained and warm water put back in. My beardie adores his baths, and as soon as the water is turned on he crawls off the counter and into the bath to lap at and claw at the water until there is enough for him to swim in. Of course, sanitizing afterwards is a pain. Assuming you want to continue doing your baths the same way, what I'd do is when the water gets cold, use a cup to move the cold water out before replacing it with warmer water.