Caring for a bearded dragon in the UK involves creating a comfortable and healthy environment for them. Below is a comprehensive guide:
 
1. Enclosure
    •    Size: A minimum of 120cm (length) x 60cm (depth) x 60cm (height) for an adult dragon. Bigger is always better.
    •    Material: Wooden vivariums with glass fronts are ideal to retain heat.
    •    Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent humidity buildup.
 
2. Heating and Lighting
    •    Basking Spot: Provide a basking area with temperatures around 38–42°C.
    •    Cool Side: Maintain the cooler end of the vivarium at 22–26°C.
    •    Night Temperatures: Should not drop below 18°C. Use ceramic heat emitters if needed.
    •    UVB Lighting: Essential for calcium metabolism. Use a T5 10–12% UVB tube spanning 2/3 of the vivarium. Replace every 12 months.
    •    Lighting Schedule: 12–14 hours of light per day to mimic natural conditions.
 
4. Diet
    •    Vegetables: A mix of leafy greens (collard greens, dandelion greens) and safe vegetables (squash, bell peppers).
    •    Live Food: Insects such as crickets, dubia roaches, and locusts should be gut-loaded and dusted with calcium powder.
    •    Treats: Small amounts of fruit (e.g., blueberries, apples) occasionally.
    •    Water: Provide a shallow water dish and mist occasionally.
 
5. Supplements
    •    Calcium: Dust live food with calcium powder 4–5 times a week.
    •    Vitamins: Use a multivitamin supplement once or twice a week.
    •    D3: If using high-quality UVB lighting, avoid excess D3 supplements.
 
6. Cleaning
    •    Spot Clean Daily: Remove waste and uneaten food.
    •    Deep Clean Weekly: Use reptile-safe disinfectants.
    •    Substrate Changes: Replace as needed to maintain hygiene.
 
7. Handling and Enrichment
    •    Handle your dragon gently and regularly to build trust.
    •    Offer enrichment through climbing branches, hides, and supervised exploration outside the vivarium.
 
8. Health and Vet Care
    •    Signs of Health: Alertness, clear eyes, smooth shedding, good appetite.
    •    Common Issues: Metabolic bone disease (due to poor UVB or calcium), impaction, respiratory infections.
    •    Reptile Vets: Ensure access to an exotic vet experienced with reptiles.
 
Legal and Ethical Care
    •    Bearded dragons are exotic pets and require a significant time and financial commitment. Research fully before purchasing, and ensure your setup is complete before bringing your dragon home.
 
Let me know if you’d like specific recommendations for UK-based suppliers or further advice!