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If you smoke and own a bearded dragon as a pet, you may wonder if these reptiles can get high. Not that you’re planning to give them a smoke (or at least, we’d hope not), but you may be worried about smoking around your reptile. That’s why many owners of these reptiles usually ask – can bearded dragons get high?
Bearded dragons can get high from second-hand smoke. These reptiles have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) just like humans. Light-headed bearded dragons will likely act disoriented, experience several bouts of lethargy, and may even vomit. If you own a bearded dragon and need to smoke, make sure you do it far from your pet.
Now that you know bearded dragons can get high, let’s dive further into the symptoms of a high bearded dragon and how to prevent your beardie from getting high.
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Signs if a Bearded Dragon Gets High?
Since bearded dragons have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) similar to that of humans, some responses to cannabis are identical. But bearded dragons could feel worse off based on their inferior respiratory system.
Bearded dragons will likely show extreme bouts of disorientation when they ingest or inhale some substances. A high bearded dragon will find movement rather tricky and will likely remain in one spot for several minutes.
Besides affecting their overall ability to move, bearded dragons could experience vomiting after ingesting some substances. Some people may believe bearded dragons will enjoy this, but frankly, they don’t.
Apart from difficulty in movement and possible vomiting, bearded dragons could experience the following symptoms:
- Seizures
- Difficulty in breathing
- Possible poisoning
- Failure of the respiratory system
In some cases, not treating any of these symptoms in your bearded dragon could lead to its death.
How to Prevent Your Bearded Dragon From Getting High by Accident
Bearded dragons are at great risk of becoming fatally ill from second-hand smoke and some substances. That’s why it is important for owners to ensure the:
Correct Distance
If you need to smoke, don’t do it around your bearded dragon if it’s out of the tank. Smoking marijuana near your bearded dragon could make it feel drowsy and experience the symptoms mentioned above.
Additionally, don’t smoke close to your bearded dragon, even if it is in a vivarium. Smoke from your marijuana could remain in the dragon’s enclosure, giving it multiple bouts of second-hand smoking.
Clothing
Besides keeping a distance from your bearded dragon, it is important to consider changing your clothes after a smoke. Bearded dragons could inhale smoke from your clothes and experience some ‘high’ symptoms.
If you can, keep away from your pet dragon for about 15 – 30 minutes before handling it.
Should You Show Concern If Your Bearded Dragons Get High?
Although bearded dragons will likely become better after feeling a little light-headed, you should keep a close eye on them. No research exists that points to bearded dragons benefiting from inhaling marijuana or nicotine-based substances.
If you notice your bearded dragon becoming increasingly lethargic, or find movement difficult, consult a vet immediately.
Apart from Getting High, What Else Can Make Bearded Dragons Fall Ill?
Stress
Bearded dragons can suffer stress symptoms for a range of reasons. Inadequate lighting, changes in sleep patterns, competition for food, and other factors may stress out a bearded dragon.
Owners of pet dragons need to make sure their pets get ample support in their environment to remain comfortable.
Read More: How to Keep a Bearded Dragon Warm at Night
Improper diet
The wrong diet could expose your bearded dragon to risk of infections and fatal diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect bearded dragons is caused by calcium deficiency.
With such deficiencies in their diet, bearded dragons become open to injuries and possible death. Therefore, pet owners need to ensure their dragons get the right amount of proteins and nutrients in meals.
Dehydration
A dehydrated dragon could find movement and common responses difficult to manage. It is important to provide your bearded dragon the right amount of moisture in its tank. Misting, ensuring correct tank humidity, and provision of clean water are some ways to tackle dehydration.
FAQs
Can bearded dragons get contact high?
Avoid smoking around your bearded dragons, as it could get high from the cigarette or marijuana fumes. Unlike many reptiles, bearded dragons have an endocannabinoid system and could feel the effects of most recreational drugs and substances.
Can I smoke around my bearded dragon?
Bearded dragons could get delusional when around smokers. It is best to avoid smoking near your bearded dragon. These reptiles have an endocannabinoid system and are prone to second-hand smoking that may affect their health.
Can my lizard get high?
Some lizards do not have an endocannabinoid system, making it less likely they’ll get high. However, other reptiles, like bearded dragons for example, have an endocannabinoid system and can get light-headed.
How high can a bearded dragon fall?
Bearded dragons could be safe when they fall at a distance no more than 2 feet. Dropping smaller bearded dragons by accident from heights like 4 – 5 feet could be fatal. Bearded dragons suffering from bone diseases may experience severe injuries from slight falls.
Final Thoughts: Can Bearded Dragons Get High?
Can bearded dragons get high? Yes they can, but with several negative consequences.
The endocannabinoid system of bearded dragons makes them prone to several health issues after getting high. Bearded dragons could vomit, find it difficult to move, become very lethargic, or even die.
If you’re a smoker and own a bearded dragon or two, it’s best to keep your smoke puffs far away. Maintaining proper health for your bearded dragon should be your main responsibility.
It is important to protect your bearded dragon from adverse health problems it may face. You don’t want to have a lethargic, sick, or dead bearded dragon on your hands because of a smoke.