What should i use?

[susitaque]

Do i need a heat pad?
heat rock?
do i need like sand?
he's only 6-7 inches
his names Stegie.
I am clueless into what he really needs for this type.
Because, the people at the pet store made me get the wrong things.
what do i need?

 

[verena]

Hi, I am also kind of new around here, but I will tell you what others shared with me. First of all, a heat rock is a big NO! it can burn your lizard really bad because they don't feel much on their stomachs and they will hurt themselves before they realize that they are too hot!
I also know that sand is a very controversial topic, but you should not use it until your dragon is an adult. Little ones can eat the sand and it will impact in their stomachs, causing severe damage. My beardie is about 9 inches now, and I got her when she was 6 inches long. i have always used the reptile carpet they sell at pet stores. It's really easy to clean, you can wash it and it will dry quickly. I do not have any sand in my tank.
About the heat pad it depends on the temperatures in your tank. You would need to give me and the others more information about your enclosure, temperature, and kind of light you are using. I hope this helps..
Verena

 

[susitaque]

Thank you so Much!
Helped alot!
The people at the store told me to get sand, heat rock, feeders, and he gave me iguana food.
Made me upset so i have to take it back.

 

[bayoupig5]

Do i need a heat pad?
heat rock?
do i need like sand?
he's only 6-7 inches
his names Stegie.
I am clueless into what he really needs for this type.
Because, the people at the pet store made me get the wrong things.
what do i need?

Everyone has a different opinion, but there are a few consistencies.
1) A heat pad would be useful if your cool side temp during the day is under 80. In my tank because I keep my home on the cool side I needed the extra heat. I chose to use a Ceramic Heat Emitter (CHE) instead, as I can control the amount of heat used by using a dimmable heat lamp. This is not the case with the pads.
2) NO HEAT ROCK, for the reasons mentioned above.
3) Sand is a heated issue, some use it some do not. As a first time beardie owner I decided against it. I did not want to risk impaction on top of everything I have to worry about, such as heat, humidity, proper diet, parasites...etc. I use textured porcelain tiles 12" X 12". They are easy to clean and look pretty good. You can also use a textured ceramic tile or slate tile.
4) Make sure you have a proper UVB light and make sure you maintain proper temps
5) Make sure you are feeding the right foods for his size.

You can get alot of information here on this site. This site has been extremely helpful for me. Search the threads for any info you require, and if you cannot find what you are looking for....ask...ask ...ask.....Hope this helps.