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A healthy, happy bearded dragon pet.
Typist: Bethany
When out and about with the Wilhelm, Brychwyn, Huxley, Amelia and Leo, I am fortunate to have the most interesting conversations with people. Most people will simply comment on the menagerie, others ask questions about the dogs breeds, how they all get along or training. Every once in a while I have an in depth discussion with someone about life with and love for pets. One such amazing conversation occurred last week and while discussing the deep bond formed with pets, the woman I was talking with mentioned how much she missed her bearded dragon. At first I though it was odd to discuss reptile care when a reptile is the one type of pet I did not have on my walk, but this neighbor knew I was simply a pet lover, regardless of species. She explained "I never thought I would be involved in reptile ownership. I mean, me, with reptile pets? But this bearded dragon was not being properly cared for and when the opportunity came for me to take it home, to help it, I knew that it needed me." The woman whimsically described the changes she witnessed in the personality of the lizard as it adjusted to a correctly sized enclosure, basking light, comfortable bedding, branches and a hide, carefully monitored temperature and humidity and a well rounded diet. "After a few months, as I was cleaning the enclosure, that bearded dragon suddenly climbed up my arm and just cuddled up on my shoulder. That became out routine every day for years. We really loved each other..." the woman's voice cracked slightly then faded. There was quiet while my welling tears subsided as well. Then I creaked out that I completely understood and commended her for the wonderful end of life she had given that pet.
When out and about with the Wilhelm, Brychwyn, Huxley, Amelia and Leo, I am fortunate to have the most interesting conversations with people. Most people will simply comment on the menagerie, others ask questions about the dogs breeds, how they all get along or training. Every once in a while I have an in depth discussion with someone about life with and love for pets. One such amazing conversation occurred last week and while discussing the deep bond formed with pets, the woman I was talking with mentioned how much she missed her bearded dragon. At first I though it was odd to discuss reptile care when a reptile is the one type of pet I did not have on my walk, but this neighbor knew I was simply a pet lover, regardless of species. She explained "I never thought I would be involved in reptile ownership. I mean, me, with reptile pets? But this bearded dragon was not being properly cared for and when the opportunity came for me to take it home, to help it, I knew that it needed me." The woman whimsically described the changes she witnessed in the personality of the lizard as it adjusted to a correctly sized enclosure, basking light, comfortable bedding, branches and a hide, carefully monitored temperature and humidity and a well rounded diet. "After a few months, as I was cleaning the enclosure, that bearded dragon suddenly climbed up my arm and just cuddled up on my shoulder. That became out routine every day for years. We really loved each other..." the woman's voice cracked slightly then faded. There was quiet while my welling tears subsided as well. Then I creaked out that I completely understood and commended her for the wonderful end of life she had given that pet.
I tried to do the same for that poorly cared for pet store chameleon I purchased on a whim decades ago. I also got to share many wonderful bonding moments with my special reptile pet but not for as long as this kind woman was lucky enough to have with her rescued bearded dragon. Before she and I parted and continued on our walks, we both agreed that someday having another reptile pet, a snake, turtle, tortoise or variety of lizard would be fun and rewarding. I told her how much more comfortable I will feel properly caring for another reptile thanks to the expanding information petMD® and PetSmart® keep adding to the Reptile Care center and she was grateful to learn about such a great online resource. With that, the accidental crossing of two pet loving people ended. But the stories and feelings we shared will be remembered by me for a long, long time. I like to think that when she again cuddles up with a reptile pet someday soon, she'll remember our chance encounter as well.
Have you or has anyone you know ever had an incredible bond with a reptile? Please share your story in the comments.
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