When it comes to choosing a pet, there are many options available, including reptiles like Rankin dragons. But before considering bringing one home, it’s important to understand their characteristics and care requirements to determine if they are suitable for you and your family.
In this article, we will explore whether Rankin dragons make good pets. We will discuss their characteristics, care needs, and suitability for families considering them as pets.
Key Takeaways:
- Rankin dragons are small reptiles native to Australia and belong to the same family as bearded dragons.
- They have a friendly and curious temperament, making them suitable for beginners and families with children.
- Rankin dragons require a properly set up enclosure with a basking area, UVB lighting, and a temperature gradient, and a varied diet consisting of greens, vegetables, and insects.
- Before deciding to get a Rankin dragon, consider factors such as the time commitment required for their care and the ongoing expenses for food, lighting, and veterinary care.
What Are Rankin Dragons?
Rankin dragons, also known as Rankin’s dragons or Lawson’s dragons, are small reptiles that are native to Australia. These dragons belong to the same family as bearded dragons and are popular as pets because of their manageable size and docile nature.
Rankin dragons grow no more than 12 to 14 inches in length and come in a variety of colors, including shades of brown, gray, and red. They are friendly and curious, making them suitable for beginners and families with children.
Keeping Rankin dragons as pets requires a properly set up enclosure with a basking area, UVB lighting, and a temperature gradient. These dragons are omnivores and require a varied diet consisting of greens, vegetables, and insects. Regular cleaning, proper hydration, and attention to their overall health are essential for their well-being.
If you are considering a Rankin dragon as a pet, it’s important to research their specific needs and consult with experienced reptile keepers to ensure you can provide the proper care and attention these dragons require.
Characteristics of Rankin Dragons
Rankin dragons, also known as Rankin’s dragons or Lawson’s dragons, are small lizards that are native to Australia. They are part of the same family as bearded dragons and are popular pets due to their manageable size and docile nature.
Rankin dragons are relatively small, with a maximum length of around 12 to 14 inches. They come in a variety of colors, including shades of brown, gray, and red. These reptiles have a friendly and curious temperament, making them suitable pets for beginners and families with children.
Rankin dragons are social creatures and enjoy interacting with their owners. They are quick learners and can recognize their owners, making them a fascinating addition to any household. These lizards are active during the day and spend most of their time basking in the sun or exploring their enclosure.
Overall, Rankin dragons are hardy pets that are relatively easy to care for. They can make a great choice for reptile enthusiasts who are looking for a low-maintenance pet.
Care Needs of Rankin Dragons
Rankin dragons require specific care to ensure their health and well-being. Proper enclosure setup, diet, cleaning, and attention to their overall health are essential.
Enclosure
Their enclosure should be at least 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 18 inches tall. It should be equipped with a basking area, UVB lighting, and a temperature gradient. The basking area should have a heat lamp that provides a temperature of 100-110°F, and the cool end should have a temperature of 75-80°F.
Diet
Rankin dragons are omnivores and require a varied diet consisting of greens, vegetables, and insects. Offer them a mix of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and mustard greens, along with vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and squash. Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches can be offered as protein sources. It’s important to dust their food with calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Cleaning
The enclosure should be spot cleaned daily, and a full cage cleaning should be done at least once a month. Use a reptile-safe cleaner to clean the enclosure, and replace the substrate often. Fresh water should be provided daily, and the water dish should be cleaned regularly.
Overall Health
Regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian are crucial for ensuring your Rankin dragon stays healthy. Signs of illness include loss of appetite, lethargy, breathing difficulties, and abnormal feces. It’s important to address any health concerns promptly to prevent further complications.
With proper care, Rankin dragons can live a long and healthy life in captivity.
Pros and Cons of Keeping Rankin Dragons as Pets
As with any pet, there are both pros and cons to consider before bringing a Rankin dragon into your home. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision about whether a Rankin dragon is the right pet for you and your family.
Pros
- Manageable size: Rankin dragons are smaller than some other popular reptile pets, making them a good choice for those with limited space.
- Docile temperament: Rankin dragons are known for their calm and friendly personalities, making them a good choice for beginners and families with children.
- Long lifespan: With proper care, Rankin dragons can live up to 10-12 years.
- Interesting behavior: Rankin dragons are curious and active, and their unique behaviors such as head bobbing and arm waving can provide entertainment for their owners.
Cons
- Specific care needs: Rankin dragons require a specific environment and diet to thrive, which can be challenging for inexperienced reptile owners.
- Might not enjoy handling: While they have a calm temperament, Rankin dragons may not enjoy being handled as much as some other reptiles, which can be disappointing for owners hoping to interact with their pets more frequently.
- Initial cost: The initial cost of setting up a proper enclosure for a Rankin dragon can be expensive, with the need for specific lighting, heating, and other equipment.
While the pros and cons of owning a Rankin dragon should be carefully considered before making a decision, they can make excellent pets for those who are willing to provide the necessary care and attention. With proper care, a Rankin dragon can be a fascinating and rewarding addition to your household.
It’s important to research best practices for keeping Rankin dragons as pets and consult with experienced reptile owners or veterinarians before bringing one into your home. Understanding their care needs and behavior can help ensure that you and your Rankin dragon have a happy and healthy life together.
Cons of Keeping Rankin Dragons as Pets
While Rankin dragons have many positive traits, there are a few cons to consider. One of the primary cons is that they require specific environmental conditions and a proper diet, which can be challenging for inexperienced reptile owners. Additionally, they may not enjoy being handled as much as other reptiles, requiring patience to build trust.
It’s essential to maintain their enclosure’s correct temperature and humidity levels, which can be difficult without proper equipment and knowledge. Rankin dragons also require UVB lighting to maintain proper health, which needs to be replaced periodically. Neglecting their dietary needs can lead to issues such as obesity or metabolic bone disease.
Another consideration is that Rankin dragons may not be a suitable pet for those who desire lots of interaction with their pets. While they can become quite tame with regular handling, they may not enjoy being handled as much as other reptiles and may become stressed or anxious if handled too often.
Overall, if you are willing to provide the necessary care and attention, the cons of owning a Rankin dragon can be outweighed by the joys of having such an interesting and unique pet.
Best Practices for Keeping Rankin Dragons as Pets
To ensure the best experience for both you and your Rankin dragon, follow these best practices:
- Research their specific care requirements before getting one.
- Only purchase a Rankin dragon from a reputable breeder or pet store.
- Provide a properly set up and maintained enclosure with suitable heating, lighting, and humidity levels.
- Offer a varied diet consisting of greens, vegetables, and insects.
- Handle them gently and with caution to build trust gradually.
- Consult with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care for regular check-ups and any health concerns.
Suitability for Families
Rankin dragons can make good pets for families, as they have a friendly and calm temperament. However, it’s important to note that they do require specific care needs and may not be suitable for all families.
Older children who are gentle and responsible can enjoy interacting with Rankin dragons. Due to their small size and docile nature, they are less intimidating than larger reptiles. However, it’s essential that all family members understand how to handle them properly and respect their needs.
Before considering a Rankin dragon as a family pet, it’s important to research their specific care requirements, including their diet, humidity levels, and enclosure setup. It’s also essential to consider the time commitment required for their care and the ongoing expenses for food, lighting, and veterinary care.
In summary, owning a Rankin dragon as a family pet can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared and knowledgeable about their care requirements before making the decision to bring one into your home.
Considerations Before Getting a Rankin Dragon
If you are considering getting a Rankin dragon as a pet, there are several factors to take into account before making a commitment.
- Time commitment: Rankin dragons require time and attention to keep healthy and happy. Owners must be willing to dedicate time each day to feeding, cleaning, and interacting with their pet.
- Initial setup cost: Setting up a proper enclosure for a Rankin dragon can be costly, and should be factored into the decision to get one as a pet. Costs can include the enclosure itself, lighting, heating, substrate, and other accessories.
- Ongoing expenses: In addition to the initial setup cost, caring for a Rankin dragon also incurs ongoing expenses such as food, supplements, and veterinary care.
It’s important to research the specific requirements of Rankin dragons and consult with experienced reptile owners to determine if a Rankin dragon is the right pet for you.
Tip: Many reptile enthusiasts recommend fostering or volunteering at a reptile rescue before committing to owning one as a pet. This allows potential owners to gain experience caring for reptiles and better understand the time and financial commitments involved.
Ultimately, deciding to get a Rankin dragon as a pet requires thoughtful consideration and planning. With proper care and attention, Rankin dragons can make rewarding and fascinating pets for reptile enthusiasts and families alike.
Suitability for Families
Rankin dragons can make excellent pets for families who are considering getting a reptile. They have a calm temperament and are generally easy to handle. However, it’s important to keep in mind that younger children may not yet have the necessary patience or maturity to handle these delicate creatures without supervision.
Rankin dragons are also relatively small in size compared to other reptile pets, making them a great fit for families with limited living space. They are especially well-suited for apartment living or those who may not have yard space for larger, outdoor enclosures.
Because Rankin dragons require a specific setup and care regimen to thrive, it’s important for every member of the family to be educated on their needs. Families who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly care for their Rankin dragon will undoubtedly enjoy many happy years with these fascinating pets.
Additional Resources
For those interested in learning more about Rankin dragons as pets, there are many reputable resources available online and in print. Reptile care guides such as The Complete Guide to Rankin Dragons by Ben Team offer valuable insights into their care needs, behavior, and health.
Joining online communities, such as Rankin Dragon Keepers on Facebook, can provide a wealth of knowledge and support from experienced Rankin dragon owners. These groups often share tips and tricks for proper care and may offer advice on common issues such as diet and enclosure setup.
Conclusion
With proper care and attention, Rankin dragons can make fascinating and rewarding pets for individuals and families. It’s important to seek out reliable sources of information, consult with experienced reptile owners, and be prepared for the time and financial commitment required to ensure their well-being. With the right approach, a Rankin dragon could be a brilliant addition to your household.