Their gentle, affectionate, and inquisitive features make bearded dragons a popular pet choice. If you're planning to welcome this friendly reptile into your home, veterinarians say having the proper lighting in place is a must to prevent harmful, potentially fatal illnesses. The following guide highlights the lighting and heat sources every tank needs to protect your future pet's health.

UVB Light

Ultraviolet B (UVB) fluorescent lighting is needed to help maintain healthy levels of vitamin D3 for a bearded dragon's skin. The illumination also allows much-needed calcium absorption. Without UVB lights, the lizard may experience a calcium deficiency that can lead to metabolic bone disease. Veterinarians say this condition causes extreme pain and bone deformities and loss. 

It is generally recommended that the UVB bulb ranges from two-thirds to three-fourths of the length of the tank that will house the bearded dragon. Mount the light on one side of the tank for optimum exposure and comfort. 

Basking Light

This type of illumination helps replicate the sun's natural rays. A basking light provides the reptile with soothing warmth. Besides enjoying the basking sensation, the exposure helps regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. A standard floodlight with a halogen bulb can provide comfort. 

The bulb's wattage will typically depend on the bearded dragon's maturity. Babies will generally prefer warmer temperatures between 105 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Older lizards tend to like cooler settings between 100 and 105 degrees. If you're unsure, a veterinarian can provide guidance on which wattage to select. 

Ceramic Heater

Installing a ceramic heater inside your pet's tank will provide invisible infrared light to maintain a comfortable warmth. The device is also essential for keeping the enclosure around 70 degrees at night. This temperature threshold allows bearded dragons to keep healthy warmth throughout the night. Most ceramic heaters are either installed on one side of the tank or near the middle to produce the best temperature gradient for their pet. 

Maintaining a Cool Side of the Tank

You'll want to create a cool zone for when your bearded dragon wants a break from the warmth. This area in the tank should ideally be in the 80- to 90-degree range. Consider putting the enclosure in a dark room with minimal light exposure on the side of the tank that doesn't contain bulbs. 

If you're considering getting a bearded dragon, turn to Ohana Veterinary Hospital in Honolulu, HI, to become your future pet's trusted health provider. You can count on the team of compassionate veterinarians and staff to provide expert guidance on caring for your new pet, including lighting recommendations. The animal clinic specializes in comprehensive and preventative services to ensure long and healthy lifespans. To learn more about bearded dragon care, call (808) 845-1762. You can also go online for a complete lineup of services.