How Much Does It Cost To Get a Dragon?
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The short answer is: it depends on the kind of “dragon” you’re talking about! If you’re dreaming of a fire-breathing, mythical beast, your wallet can rest easy, as those don’t exist in the real world (yet!). However, if you’re captivated by the idea of owning a bearded dragon, a popular reptile pet, then the costs are much more tangible. The purchase price for a bearded dragon can range from $40 to $150, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This article will break down the real costs associated with acquiring and caring for a bearded dragon, as well as clear up some common misconceptions about dragons as pets. We will also explore related questions about “dragons” in general.
Initial Costs: Bringing Home Your Bearded Dragon
The price of the bearded dragon itself will vary. Babies, typically under a year old, are generally priced between $40 and $70, while adult dragons can go for around $150. The cost can depend on factors like the breeder’s reputation, the lizard’s age, coloration (morphs), health and its origin. However, the purchase price is just the first of many costs you need to consider. Here’s a breakdown:
Essential Setup: Your Dragon’s Habitat
- Enclosure: A glass terrarium or vivarium is essential. For a young bearded dragon, a 40-gallon tank will suffice, but adults need at least 75 gallons, and 120 gallons is even better. Prices range from $100 to $300+, depending on size and brand.
- Substrate: The bedding or flooring material in the tank. Avoid sand as this can be harmful for your pet. Reptile carpet or non-particle substrates are best. These can be around $20 to $50.
- Heating: Bearded dragons need a basking area and a heat lamp. A good quality heat lamp and ceramic heat emitter for nighttime costs around $50 to $100.
- UVB Lighting: Essential for calcium absorption and overall health. A good UVB fluorescent tube can range from $40 to $70, and will require a special fixture.
- Thermometer and Hygrometer: To monitor temperature and humidity – essential for your lizard’s wellbeing. Expect to pay between $10 and $30.
- Basking Spot and Hides: Include rocks or branches for basking and hides for the lizard to feel secure. These items can range from $20 to $50.
- Food and Water Dishes: Ceramic dishes are best to avoid tipping and easy to clean. These cost around $10 to $20.
Food and Care: Ongoing Expenses
- Food: Bearded dragons eat both insects and greens. Live insects such as crickets and dubia roaches can be purchased from pet stores or ordered online. Expect to spend $20 to $50 per month. Fresh vegetables and greens should also be a part of their diet.
- Calcium and Vitamin Supplements: Powdered supplements to dust the insects, ranging from $10 to $20.
- Veterinary Care: Bearded dragons need regular checkups and can be susceptible to specific diseases, so budget at least $50 to $150+ for the visit. Emergency situations can drastically increase costs.
- Electricity: The lighting and heating elements will add to your electricity bill. The cost can vary but expect a modest increase.
- Miscellaneous: Cleaning supplies, replacement lightbulbs, and other small items should also be accounted for, which could be $10 to $20 per month.
Grand Total: The Real Cost of a Bearded Dragon
Adding all these costs together, getting started with a bearded dragon can easily cost between $400 and $800 in the first month alone. Ongoing expenses can range from $50 to $150+ per month, depending on factors like your pet’s age, location and choices in care. Therefore, while the initial purchase price seems low, the true cost of owning a bearded dragon lies in responsible care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Dragons” as Pets
1. Can I own a real fire-breathing dragon?
Unfortunately, no. The dragons of myth and legend are just that: myths and legends. While they capture our imaginations, they don’t exist in the real world. The “dragons” mentioned in most pet-related articles refer to the bearded dragon, a species of lizard.
2. Are bearded dragons good pets for children?
Bearded dragons can make great pets for older children, if they are properly supervised. Young children may unintentionally harm them due to their delicate nature. Children must be taught proper handling, hygiene and care requirements and must be responsible under supervision of an adult.
3. Are bearded dragons easy to care for?
Bearded dragons are considered relatively easy to care for compared to other reptiles, but they still require specific care requirements, including proper heating, lighting, and diet. Research and commitment are essential. It is not as simple as other pets might be.
4. Do bearded dragons love their owners?
While not as affectionate as dogs or cats, bearded dragons can show signs of affection, such as remaining calm when handled or sitting on their owner’s lap. They will form a bond with their owner. They don’t form emotional bonds like mammals, but can recognize their human.
5. What is the lifespan of a bearded dragon?
The average lifespan is 8 to 10 years, but with proper care, they can live for 10 to 15 years, or even longer. One known dragon lived to 18 years. They require a long-term commitment, so this should be considered before purchasing one.
6. Do bearded dragons need to be taken outside?
While they can benefit from natural sunlight, it’s safer to avoid taking them outside, due to temperature and predator concerns. If they are taken outside, they should be supervised. It is safer and more convenient to use proper UV lighting, which is essential for their health.
7. What do bearded dragons eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores, eating a diet of both insects and leafy green vegetables. Baby bearded dragons require a higher protein (insect) diet, while adults need more greens.
8. Where is the best place to buy a bearded dragon?
The best option is to buy from a reputable breeder, as this is where you are more likely to get a healthy animal. A pet store may be an option if a breeder cannot be reached, but make sure that the animal appears healthy.
9. How often do bearded dragons need to be handled?
Bearded dragons don’t need constant handling. They should be handled gently and with care, and given time alone. Frequent and gentle interaction will lead to a calmer pet.
10. Are bearded dragons social animals?
No, bearded dragons are not social creatures. They are solitary animals and should not be kept with other bearded dragons unless they are carefully monitored and are in a large enough enclosure.
11. Do bearded dragons need veterinary care?
Yes, like all pets, bearded dragons require routine veterinary care from a reptile vet. This will help in ensuring their health and preventing disease.
12. Can I keep a Dragon Snake as a pet?
Dragon snakes are not recommended for beginners. They have specific needs and are best suited for experienced reptile keepers. Captive breeding is not yet well established.
13. Are there other types of “dragon” lizards?
Yes, Draco lizards are sometimes referred to as “flying dragons” due to their unique skin flaps. However, they are not suitable for beginners, as they are shy and require specific care. Komodo dragons are also real lizards, but they are a large and dangerous species that are not meant to be pets.
14. Do “dragons” talk to humans?
While some mythical dragons can talk, real dragons (bearded dragons) cannot speak human languages. They communicate through body language and their actions.
15. Do dragons have a god?
In some mythology, dragons are associated with deities, with figures like Bahamut being the Dragon God in Dungeons and Dragons. However, real lizards (bearded dragons) do not have religious beliefs. This is a reference to fantasy and mythology.
By considering these questions, you’ll be better prepared to assess if a bearded dragon is the right pet for you, and what the true costs and commitments of “dragon” ownership really are.