Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK, I'm still fairly new at being a beardie owner, so this seems like a dumb question, but since I've never read or seen anything about it, I have to ask - does a beardie need its nails trimmed, since it's not running around and climbing like it would be in the wild? I assume the answer is no, but, well, you never know.

By the way, I'm the one who's beardie - Puff - escaped, and was outdoors for 3 nights in a row, and she is doing fine - in fact, I just noticed at 15 inches, she is bordering chubby, and her color is better than ever - she is a real beauty of a pastel. Thanks to those who put in agood word for her!

Oh, one more question - what is the average size of an adult female pastel, healthy...how long should I expect her to get, more or less? I don't know exactly how old she is, they weren't exact when I bought her, but she is maybe 9 - 10 months old.

thanks,

Renee

Since it's not running around in the wild, is actually the reason that you DO need to. After a while, you'll find that the nails get rather sharp, and you'll notice more and more scratches on your hand. One thing you can do, is force them to climb up a stone or something else rough to get to their basking spot. That will at least wear them down a little. Clipping them isn't that hard, you just have to have a steady hand, calm dragon, good vision and confidence. Or you can have a vet do it.

Another option to clipping if they get to sharp is to use an emery board and file them down......

The average dragon is 16-22 inches...some being smaller and some larger of course....looks like from her size now she should fall in that range.....I would estimate 16-19 given her length and probable age.....
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Tracey
Tracey's Beardies
www.beardiecrazy.com

Glad I asked! She'll be no problem - she's the most laid back reptile I've ever seen. Yes, her nails are getting quite long and sharp. She's asked me to do the typing here, in fact, since the nails have become so cumbersome. Time for a pedicure.

Renee