Really skittish new beardie needs a soak

[Marshamello]

We got our new beardie on Friday, I know he must be thirsty and I want to give him a soak, he hasn't let us pick him up yet, when we get too close he runs to the side of his viv and scratches to try and get away. Should I just grab him and make him come with me? I haven't been able to drip water on his nose either because I can't get close to him. Please help.

 

[Goonie]

You can try to grab him and pick him up, but be sure to cup him with the other to prevent him from jumping off and potentially hurting himself.

Limit the soak to only 5-8 minutes, as not to overly stress him out. After a week or so, you can increase the time by 1-2 minutes more, until he's more comfortable with both being held and in the water.

 

[Marshamello]

Ok, thanks for the reply, I just didn't want to do it if it was a bad idea. He's actually being a little better now, letting us get our hands near him and even let my fiance pet him once earlier.

 

[chrism1]

Hello,

From the experience I've had, it's ok to grab him if he is a bit skittish at first. The key is to move in slowly, and cup him from underneath. Hold him as close to your body as you can while supporting all four of his legs, that way he feels secure. Try holding him for a while in this position so he feels more comfortable with you; in time, he will love you

You can also try gently petting him or placing him on your shoulder, but this should be reserved until later.

For the soak, Goonie is right, limit the bath time until you develop a relationship with him.

 

[Marshamello]

Well, we gave him about a 6-7 minute soak and I think it actually went pretty well. He doesn't like the picking up part but once he's in our hands he just sat there, didn't struggle or try to jump or run. He had less stress marks after it all too, which is good. Thanks for the advice chrism and Goonie.

 

[chrism1]

Well, we gave him about a 6-7 minute soak and I think it actually went pretty well. He doesn't like the picking up part but once he's in our hands he just sat there, didn't struggle or try to jump or run. He had less stress marks after it all too, which is good. Thanks for the advice chrism and Goonie.

yeah picking up is always kinda hit or miss for me and Domo, I've started picking his front legs up with my finger and then kinda sliding him onto my hand; it seems to work ok. Glad to hear it! It sounds like you can start giving him progressively longer baths until you hit the 20-30 minute mark