So, after basically promising the kids we would be getting a bearded dragon and even buying a few things I am now seriously starting to reconsider our decision to get a beardie. We are dog people and this would be our first reptile.
I got hooked in because they really are freakin' cute and many care websites discuss how they are a great starter pet, great for kids, easier than owing a cat or dog, etc. The more I research about them, the more I am realizing their care is very time consuming and expensive!
I didn't realize bearded dragons need such a varied diet. I have no idea how I would have time to chop up fresh vegetables every morning while also trying to get myself and 3 kids ready for work and school. And I don't mind handling live insects but I had no idea I had to first gut feed the crickets. Sounds like I would have to take care of the crickets like another pet.
Also, I purchased a 40 gallon breeder which I read is "supposed" to be large enough for an adult. Now I am learning I will need to purchase something bigger. I have no idea where I'm supposed to put such a large enclosure in my house!
My husband thinks we need to get one since we promised the kids and not getting one would be mean. I already had a discussion with them. Of course they were disappointed. I just don't want to get into such a long commitment of taking care of an animal that is too much for us to handle. Although our dog is healthy and happy, there are days we can't give him the attention he wants/needs. I also am not prepared financially for a beardie. I budgeted for start up costs of setting up a terrarium. I did not plan on the monthly expense for feeding and lighting. My dog is cheap. He eats $30 worth of food every few months, vet visit once a year, and we mostly use neighbors and family to watch him when we go away. Also, I bathe my dog once a month. Less in the winter months. It seems crazy that I would have to bathe a lizard weekly. I do feel bad because my son (age 4) is really into lizards right now. I'm wondering is there another type of lizard that is a little easier to care for? How does everyone on here do this with kids and a full time job?
I got hooked in because they really are freakin' cute and many care websites discuss how they are a great starter pet, great for kids, easier than owing a cat or dog, etc. The more I research about them, the more I am realizing their care is very time consuming and expensive!
I didn't realize bearded dragons need such a varied diet. I have no idea how I would have time to chop up fresh vegetables every morning while also trying to get myself and 3 kids ready for work and school. And I don't mind handling live insects but I had no idea I had to first gut feed the crickets. Sounds like I would have to take care of the crickets like another pet.
Also, I purchased a 40 gallon breeder which I read is "supposed" to be large enough for an adult. Now I am learning I will need to purchase something bigger. I have no idea where I'm supposed to put such a large enclosure in my house!
My husband thinks we need to get one since we promised the kids and not getting one would be mean. I already had a discussion with them. Of course they were disappointed. I just don't want to get into such a long commitment of taking care of an animal that is too much for us to handle. Although our dog is healthy and happy, there are days we can't give him the attention he wants/needs. I also am not prepared financially for a beardie. I budgeted for start up costs of setting up a terrarium. I did not plan on the monthly expense for feeding and lighting. My dog is cheap. He eats $30 worth of food every few months, vet visit once a year, and we mostly use neighbors and family to watch him when we go away. Also, I bathe my dog once a month. Less in the winter months. It seems crazy that I would have to bathe a lizard weekly. I do feel bad because my son (age 4) is really into lizards right now. I'm wondering is there another type of lizard that is a little easier to care for? How does everyone on here do this with kids and a full time job?