Hi there,
I adopted an adult beardie who'd been attacked by others and had never been handled. If I put my hand near her Dex would go to bite me, and managed to quite a few times, and PANIC if i tried to hold her (jump, squirm, scratch, puff, hiss etc). But I assure you nothing is more rewarding than taming your beardie, you gain a real bond when you've had to 'fight for it'.
I used the following tricks that helped her settle down:
- put your hand in her tank, flat, but dont touch her. she'll see your not there to grab her. do this every now and then for a day or so.
- once youve done for a while start only hand feeding her (wriggley mealworms/waxworms work best). If she goes to bite you be brave and try not to flinch, just raise your hand up and remove the food. she'll soon learn biting isnt a good idea.
- then go for handling her again but do it 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 dlorr 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.
- when handling in this taming period make sure your not wearing any strong aftershave and that you dont smell like food.
- it also often helps alot to find an old item of clothing of yours which smells like you (or cut a chunk out of it) and leave it in the tank. This way she will become used to your smell in a non threatening manner.
and repeat!
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.
It can be hard work but I promise its possible to 'tame a beast'.
My girl was very agressive when I rescued her, but she turned into the most loving affectionate girl who filled my life with joy.
Be patient.
Keep the faith.
Holly
