Hey all, we are a family of three with a 6-year-old child, and we’re looking to get a new pet. We had dogs for over 10 years, but unfortunately, our kid has some trauma from an incident with a dog last year. After a lot of research, we’ve ruled out dogs and cats (due to allergies) and think we’ve narrowed it down to either a Bearded Dragon or a pair of Ferrets. I’ve worked in a pet store and have some experience with different pets. We have a vet nearby who cares for both bearded dragons and ferrets. I’m curious about your thoughts on either option. We see ferrets as high-risk, high-reward, while bearded dragons seem like a safer option. What are your experiences and recommendations? Thanks in advance for your help!
Ferrets are stinky and a lot more work than bearded dragons. My dragon’s daily care is pretty easy once you set up the vivarium.
Bailey said:
Ferrets are stinky and a lot more work than bearded dragons. My dragon’s daily care is pretty easy once you set up the vivarium.
Good to know! I’d prefer something low-maintenance for sure.
Yeah, ferrets are a lot of work and can have expensive health problems from how they’re bred.
Even if you descent them, they still smell. Just a heads up.
The females aren’t too smelly if kept well. My friend has one in a flat, and the smell is negligible.
We went for ferrets when we had a similar decision, but I’d suggest rats too. Bearded dragons are affectionate but need a specialist diet.
We’ve had both at various times. Bearded dragons are pretty low-key, but ferrets are super engaging and fun. They do require a lot of attention though.
I’d choose a bearded dragon since you already have allergies to fur-bearing pets. Ferrets might trigger those allergies more.
Tal said:
I’d choose a bearded dragon since you already have allergies to fur-bearing pets. Ferrets might trigger those allergies more.
That’s a great point! Thanks for mentioning the allergy aspect.