What to Consider Before Getting a Pet Lizard: A Guide for Australian Pet Owners

Lizards make fascinating and low-maintenance pets for reptile enthusiasts, offering a unique alternative to traditional pets like cats and dogs. With their quirky personalities, vibrant colours, and variety of species, lizards can make excellent companions. However, before bringing a pet lizard into your home, it’s important to understand the responsibilities that come with caring for one. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, or a more rural area of Australia, here’s what you need to consider before getting a pet lizard.

1. Choosing the Right Species for Your Home

Australia is home to many species of lizards, from the friendly bearded dragon to the exotic blue tongue skink. However, not all species are suitable for first-time reptile owners. Before getting a pet lizard, do your research on the species that would best fit your lifestyle and experience level.

– Bearded Dragons are one of the most popular pet lizards in Australia. They’re social, easy to handle, and have a calm temperament, making them ideal for beginners.

– Blue Tongue Skinks are another great option for first-time lizard owners. They’re hardy, friendly, and enjoy interaction with humans.

– Leopard Geckos are small, nocturnal lizards that are also beginner-friendly.

– Monitor Lizards, while stunning, can be much more challenging to care for and are better suited to experienced reptile keepers.

Take into account the size of the lizard, its dietary needs, and its temperament to ensure you choose a species that will fit your home environment.

2. Space and Housing Requirements

Lizards require a suitable enclosure to thrive. The size of the enclosure will depend on the species of lizard you choose. For example, a bearded dragon will need a larger enclosure, such as a 120-150 cm long tank, while a gecko may only need a smaller setup. 

The enclosure should mimic the lizard’s natural habitat as closely as possible, providing the right environment for basking, hiding, and climbing. Consider the following factors when setting up your lizard’s habitat:

– Heating and Lighting: Lizards are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. You’ll need to invest in proper UVB and heat lamps to provide the necessary warmth and light for your pet. A basking spot with temperatures between 30-40°C is essential for most species.

– Humidity Levels: Some lizards, like the green tree python, require higher humidity, while others, such as the bearded dragon, prefer drier conditions. Make sure to monitor and adjust humidity levels as required.

– Substrate: Choose a substrate (the material used for the bottom of the enclosure) that is safe for your lizard. Common options include sand, soil, and reptile carpet, but avoid using loose substrates like wood chips, as they can cause impaction if ingested.

3. Diet and Nutrition

Different species of lizards have different dietary needs. For instance, herbivorous lizards like the bearded dragon will need a diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables, while carnivorous species, such as the blue tongue skink, will require protein-rich foods like insects, eggs, and meat.

Understanding the nutritional requirements of your pet lizard is crucial to its long-term health. Many lizards also need calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to maintain healthy bones. Always check with a reptile vet or experienced keeper for specific dietary advice for your chosen species.

4. Health Care and Vet Visits

Like all pets, lizards require regular check-ups and care. Finding an experienced vet who specialises in reptiles is essential, as reptiles can suffer from unique health issues such as metabolic bone disease, parasites, or respiratory infections. 

Additionally, you’ll need to be vigilant about the signs of illness in your pet. Common signs of sickness in lizards include:

– Loss of appetite

– Lethargy or decreased activity levels

– Difficulty shedding or incomplete sheds

– Changes in skin colour or texture

Regular health checks and a proper diet are essential for keeping your lizard happy and healthy.

5. Lizard Handling and Socialisation

While some lizards are naturally docile, others can be more territorial or skittish. It’s important to understand the temperament of your pet before handling it. Species like the bearded dragon enjoy social interaction and can be easily handled, while other species may be more independent or difficult to tame.

Take time to acclimatise your lizard to its new environment before attempting to handle it. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend with it, and always ensure your hands are clean before touching your pet to avoid transferring harmful chemicals or bacteria.

6. The Long-Term Commitment

Lizards can live for many years, depending on the species. A bearded dragon, for example, can live up to 12 years, while a blue tongue skink can live for 20 years or more. This long lifespan means you’ll need to be prepared for a long-term commitment when you bring a pet lizard into your home.

Additionally, lizards can be costly to care for. Beyond the initial purchase of the lizard itself, you’ll need to invest in its enclosure, heating and lighting, food, supplements, and potential vet bills. Make sure you’re ready for the financial responsibility of keeping a pet lizard before making the decision to adopt one.

7. Legal Considerations in Australia

Before bringing a lizard into your home, it’s important to check the legal regulations around keeping reptiles as pets in your state or territory. In Australia, various species of reptiles are protected, and it may be illegal to capture and keep wild lizards without proper permits. Always buy your pet lizard from a reputable breeder or pet store to ensure it’s legally obtained.

Conclusion: Is a Pet Lizard Right for You?

Getting a pet lizard can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not a decision to be made lightly. There’s a lot to consider, from choosing the right species and providing a suitable habitat to ensuring you can meet their long-term care needs. With the right knowledge and preparation, owning a pet lizard can be a highly enjoyable and educational experience. If you’re willing to invest the time and effort into caring for your pet, a lizard can make a unique and fascinating companion for years to come.

If you’re ready to take the plunge and adopt a pet lizard, make sure to do your research and ensure you have the right environment and commitment for the species you choose. Happy reptile-keeping!