Kissing your pet bearded dragon may seem like a sweet gesture of affection. However, you might be wondering if it’s safe or recommended. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about kissing bearded dragons.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: It is generally not recommended to kiss your bearded dragon. While rare, reptiles including bearded dragons can transmit salmonella and other bacteria to humans.
For your health and the health of your pet, it’s better to show affection in other ways like gentle pets and handling.
Potential Health Risks of Kissing Bearded Dragons
Salmonella and Other Bacteria
Kissing your bearded dragon can expose you to salmonella and other bacteria that may be present in their mouth or on their skin. Salmonella is one of the most common risks, and reptiles like bearded dragons may carry it without showing any symptoms.
If ingested, salmonella can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever in humans. Other bacteria like E. coli and campylobacter can also lead to gastrointestinal illness.
To reduce the risk, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your bearded dragon. Avoid kissing them near their mouth, and supervise any contact with children or elderly individuals who may have weaker immune systems.
Routine testing and treatment for salmonella in pet reptiles can also help minimize transmission.
Transmission to Humans
Kissing allows bacteria direct access to enter your mouth and digestive tract. Even brief contact with your bearded dragon’s skin or mouth can result in enough bacterial transfer to make you sick. The most severe cases tend to occur in children under 5 or adults over 65, as their immune systems are not as strong.
In one CDC analysis of 11 salmonella outbreaks linked to pet reptiles, more than 70% involved children under 10. Children may also be more likely to kiss their pets or touch their faces after handling reptiles, increasing their risk. Supervise kids closely and make sure proper hygiene is followed.
Weaker Immune Systems in Children and Elderly
Healthy adults may be able to kiss a bearded dragon briefly without getting sick. But individuals with weaker immune systems are at much higher risk of developing salmonella or other bacterial infections.
Young children under 5 and seniors over 65 tend to be more vulnerable to gastrointestinal illnesses that can result from exposures to reptile-associated salmonella. The immune systems in very young and old individuals may not be strong enough to fight off infection before it takes hold.
It’s best to avoid kissing bearded dragons entirely if you are very young or elderly. Always supervise children around reptiles and ensure proper hand washing. Speak to your doctor right away if you develop any signs of illness after contact with a bearded dragon.
Signs of Illness to Watch For
Lethargy and Loss of Appetite
A bearded dragon that is lethargic and not eating is one of the clearest signs that something is wrong. Lethargy means they are more sluggish than usual and lack energy. They may just sit in one spot without moving around much. A loss of appetite or refusal to eat for multiple days is also concerning.
Bearded dragons rely on eating regularly to stay healthy. If they go for more than 2-3 days without eating, it can quickly lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss. Contact a veterinarian promptly if you notice these signs, as they can indicate an underlying health issue needs treatment.
Diarrhea or Loose Stool
Loose or watery stool that is abnormal for your bearded dragon can indicate gastrointestinal issues. Diarrhea may be accompanied by a lack of appetite. Certain parasites, bacterial infections, or improper nutrition can cause diarrhea. Have a fecal test done by a vet to check for parasites.
Also review your dragon’s diet and make sure the feeder insects have been gut loaded properly. Mild cases may resolve on their own as their digestive system recovers. But if it persists for over 2 days, or your dragon seems lethargic, a vet visit is recommended.
Vomiting
Bearded dragons do not vomit often, so vomiting is usually a sign something is medically wrong. It can be caused by a parasitic infection, bacterial infection, or simply eating something that disagreed with their stomach. Yellowish vomit that is thick and foamy may indicate a serious internal issue.
Vomiting needs to be addressed by an exotic pet veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and provide proper treatment. Try to collect a sample of the vomit to show the vet. Also withhold food for 12-24 hours after vomiting to give the stomach a chance to rest.
Visible Sores or Abscesses
Open sores, lesions, or abscesses on a bearded dragon’s skin is worrisome since bacteria can enter the wound and cause a worse infection. Abscesses are swollen lump pockets of pus under the skin, usually caused by an injury or bite. The skin around the area often looks red and inflamed.
Lesions or ulcers can range from red patches to open bleeding wounds. All of these require medical treatment, which may include draining abscesses, cleaning out wounds, and antibiotic therapy. Keeping the enclosure clean and free of sharp decor is crucial to avoid injuries that can lead to visible sores.
Monitor for any signs of swelling or lesions, and contact your exotic vet promptly if you notice any.
Proper Bearded Dragon Hygiene and Habitat Cleaning
Daily Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning your bearded dragon’s enclosure daily is crucial for keeping your pet healthy and happy. Simply scoop out soiled substrate, feces, and any uneaten food with a plastic spoon or scooper. It’s best to remove feces and urates as soon as you notice them, as they can harbor bacteria.
Wipe down any décor items or shelter surfaces your dragon may have defecated on with a soft cloth or paper towel and warm water. This quick maintenance helps prevent harmful ammonia and parasites from accumulating.
Deep Cleaning Enclosure
About once a month, you’ll want to do a thorough scrub down of the entire tank and all accessories. First, carefully remove your dragon and place them in a secure temporary housing container. Then, discard all substrate material.
Wash the tank and décor vigorously with hot water and an appropriate reptile-safe cleaner. Rinse thoroughly until there is no soapy residue left behind. Allow items to air dry completely before reassembling their home.
Disinfecting Decor and Accessories
On occasion, it’s wise to disinfect everything in your pet’s habitat to kill stubborn microorganisms. The CDC states that a bleach solution of 1-part bleach to 9 parts hot water can be effective when properly used.
After deep cleaning accessories and allowing to dry fully, spray items with the disinfectant mixture. Let them soak for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and allow drying completely again prior to use.
Maintaining Proper Temperatures and Humidity
Besides keeping your beardie’s habitat clean, monitoring and maintaining proper temperatures and humidity levels are also vital for health. Use quality under tank heaters with reptile-safe thermometers to ensure their basking spot stays at 95-110 °F.
Ambient temperature should measure 75-80 °F on the cooler side. Humidity level should be a moderate 30-40%. Proper heating and hydration supports their digestion and immune system functioning.
Alternative Ways to Bond With Your Bearded Dragon
Hand Feeding and Treats
One of the best ways to bond with your bearded dragon is through hand feeding and treats. Offering food by hand allows the bearded dragon to associate you with something positive – yummy snacks! Some healthy treat options include chopped fruits and veggies like strawberries, blueberries, sweet potato, squash, and greens.
Just be sure to feed treats in moderation. Place the food in your palm and let your bearded dragon lick it right up. This touch and interaction helps build trust. You’ll love watching their eyes light up when you walk by with an irresistible treat!
Petting and Gentle Handling
Petting and gentle handling is key for bonding with bearded dragons once they are accustomed to you. Most bearded dragons enjoy being stroked gently on the head, chin, cheeks and back. Start slow with light petting so you don’t startle them.
Over time and with regular positive interaction, they will learn to associate human touch with something safe and enjoyable. Be sure to avoid sensitive areas like the tail and stomach. Also let the bearded dragon walk into your hands when handling rather than grabbing at them.
This helps build additional trust between owner and lizard.
Training and Positive Reinforcement
Many bearded dragon owners are surprised to learn that you can actually train a bearded dragon! With proper time and techniques, bearded dragons can learn simple commands and tricks. Positive reinforcement training is best.
For example, if you are teaching them to walk from one hand to the other, reward with a treat when they complete the trick. Repeat command words like “come” or their name as you train. This mental stimulation provides needed exercise and strengthens the bond through this interactive play.
So cool when your bearded dragon learns to give you a “high five!” 🎉
Playing and Exercise
Dedicate playtime for exercising and interacting with your bearded dragon daily. Great activities include allowing them to roam supervised, gentle chasing games, and having them chase a ping pong ball. You can even use a laser pointer to get them scurrying around – dragons love chasing the dot!
Install climbing branches and rocks in their terrarium to encourage activity when you are not actively engaging them. Interacting through play provides mental and physical stimulation needed for a healthy pet. Make playtime fun with a variety of games and toys to keep their interest.
Just like walking a dog, make sure your bearded dragon gets the daily exercise and interaction needed to form a strong bond.
When to Ask a Vet About Bearded Dragon Health Concerns
Schedule Annual Checkups
Even if your bearded dragon seems perfectly healthy, it’s important to bring them in for an annual checkup with an exotic pet veterinarian. During the visit, the vet will check your dragon’s weight, eyes, skin, mobility, and more for any developing issues.
They can also test for parasites and provide wellness advice tailored to your pet.
The Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians recommends an annual exam for bearded dragons over 2 years old. Younger, growing dragons may need checkups every 6 months. Ask your exotic vet for advice on the best checkup schedule for your pet’s needs.
Consult Exotic Pet Specialist
If you notice symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, unusual bathroom habits, or skin/eye issues in your bearded dragon, schedule a vet visit right away. Don’t wait and hope the symptoms resolve on their own. Reptiles are masters at hiding illnesses, so symptoms can indicate an advanced issue.
Make sure to visit an exotic animal veterinarian rather than a general vet clinic. Exotic vets specialize in the unique care of reptiles and other specialty pets. They can accurately diagnose and treat conditions specific to bearded dragons and other reptile species.
Monitor Symptoms Between Vet Visits
Pay close attention to your bearded dragon’s energy levels, appetite, bathroom habits, and overall appearance between vet visits. Keep a journal tracking their symptoms, appetite, weight, and other health indicators. Share this log with your exotic vet to help them make an accurate diagnosis.
You know your bearded dragon best. Speak up if you notice differences in their behavior, movement, or appearance. Your keen eye could alert your vet to brewing health issues early when they are most treatable.
Conclusion
While kissing your bearded dragon may seem harmless, it’s better to avoid this to prevent any risk of transmitting bacteria between you and your pet. Focus on other ways to bond and interact safely. With proper hygiene and habitat maintenance, you can minimize the chances of illness in your bearded dragon.
Check in with your exotic pet veterinarian if you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s health and behavior.
Show your beardie affection with pets, treats and playtime instead of kisses. By being a responsible pet owner, you can enjoy many happy and healthy years with your bearded dragon.
