Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi Everyone!
I am totally new to Bearded Dragons. I have a 55 gallon tank that is not being used since my Oscar died So, I went to the LFS to see about getting some more fish when I went into the reptile room. Someone that was working there had a bearded dragon on her shoulder. My first instict was to run (I'm a wus) but after she talked me into holding it I fell in LOVE I have always been afraid of reptiles, but I loved interacting with this guy! (I'm not sure how old he was but he was not very tiny). I have decided I would like to get one of my own, so I've been doing my research on the internet about what all I will need to buy before bringing one home. I'm trying to follow the care sheets but am lost!!!! I think I'm going to make someone from the fish store walk around with me and just say "you need that" and "you need that"

I live right outside of Lancaster PA so Dachiu Dragons are only about 35-45 minutes from me. Has anyone purchased a dragon from them? I'm thinking since this is my first one I'm not really concerned about the colors, as long as they have a good temperment (which I know sometimes can be hit or miss). I'm probably (okay, I'll be honest..I KNOW) going to have a TON of questions..enough on this board to drive anyone crazy..so anyone interested in being my beardie mentor through all this? LOL

I have nothing but good things about Dachiu's dragons and the owners. I would recommend the caresheets at:

www.reptilerooms.com
and
Beardiedragon.com Caresheet Q & A

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Stacey

The Dachius are a GREAT place to get a dragon! Please please just don't go to a pet store!
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You already have a tank large enough for an adult bearded dragon, assuming the 55gal is more long than tall (ie about 4'x2'x2'). If it already has a hood, even better. The only thing you need to get is as follows:

UVB bulb/tube: (repti-sun, repti-glo 5.0 or 8.0)
Regular household bulb (for basking spot) (temp 95-115F)
Digital thermometer with probe or temp gun(to measure temps on basking spot)
Paper towel (for babies) or nonstick shelf liner, newsprint, butcher's paper, plastic tablecloth or for adults, washed play sand (bought at home depot, hardware stores, ETC)
A wide branch, rock or brick for the dragon to bask on.
Small water dish (optional)
Mister (to mist baby dragons 2-3 times a day, dont' really need it for adults)
A supply of crickets (babies eat alot! adults not so much,) Instead of crickets you can use roaches, silkworms or butterworms.
Mixed dark leafy greens (www.beautifuldragons.com has a great list, just click on plant link)
Multi-vitamin and Calcium with D3
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PHLdyPayne

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! I printed out your list and am taking it with me tonight to buy everything I need. The only problem I can forsee is that my tank is a 55 gallon high instead of long, which is going to make it difficult to get my hands all the way down to the bottom (I'm only 5 feet tall!!!). I spoke to the lady at Dachiu yesterday and am going to get my beardie sometime next week once I get everything set up!!!!!!