How To Get Sand Out Of Bearded Dragon Eye?

As a Reptile Health Expert, I am often asked about how to get sand out of Bearded Dragon eyes. This is a common concern as the improper use of substrate can lead to eye irritation and infections in these lovable lizards.

Sand should not be used as substrate for Bearded Dragons as they are known to ingest it while hunting their food, which can cause a variety of health issues. It is also important to note that if sand does get into the eyes, it should be removed immediately and carefully to prevent further complications.

In this article, I will provide tips on how best to remove sand from your Bearded Dragon’s eyes safely and effectively. Keep reading to learn more about how you can keep your beloved pet healthy and happy.

Steps to Remove Sand from Bearded Dragon’s Eye

An Unpleasant Experience for Your Bearded Dragon

Having sand in their eyes can be a painful and distressing experience for bearded dragons. If left untreated, it can lead to infections, corneal ulcers, and even permanent blindness. Therefore, it is essential to remove the sand as soon as possible.

Gently Clean the Eye with Saline Solution

The first step in removing sand from your bearded dragon’s eye is to clean the eye gently with a saline solution. You can purchase saline solution at most pet stores or online. Ensure that the saline solution is not too cold or too hot before using it on your pet.

To apply the saline solution, use a dropper or syringe and carefully place two drops of the solution onto your bearded dragon’s eye. Wait for about 30 seconds before drying up the liquid using a soft cloth or cotton swab.

Remove Sand Particles using Tweezers

After cleaning and drying up your bearded dragon’s eye, try to locate where exactly in their eyes has accumulated sand by examining them closely. Once you have located where the particle is lodged around the eyelid or eyeball area, use a pair of tweezers with rounded tips to remove it.

Be careful not to make any sudden movements that could startle your beardie while performing this delicate task. If you are not confident about performing this action, we recommend consulting a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.

Prevent Further Irritation Using Lubricating Drops

After successfully removing all particles of sand from your bearded dragon’s eyes’ surface area, gently apply lubricating drops over its eyes’ surface area. Lubrication will prevent any further irritation by keeping their eyes hydrated and moisturized.

Making the Process Comfortable and Less Stressful

Removing sand from your bearded dragon’s eyes can be an uncomfortable experience. To make the process less stressful, always hold your pet gently and avoid making any sudden movements that could startle them.

Additionally, it’s crucial to keep your bearded dragon calm during this procedure. You can sing or talk to them in a soft voice to comfort them while you work on their delicate eyes.

Preventing Sand from Getting into Bearded Dragon’s Eye

Creating a Safe Enclosure

One of the most effective ways to prevent sand from getting into your bearded dragon’s eyes is to create a safe enclosure for them. This includes choosing the right substrate and keeping their habitat clean.

Sand is a common cause of eye problems in bearded dragons because it is abrasive and can easily get into their eyes. Avoid using sand as a substrate and instead opt for non-toxic materials such as reptile carpet or paper towels.

Disinfecting Your Bearded Dragon’s Environment

Cleaning your bearded dragon’s environment regularly can also help prevent eye problems caused by sand. Disinfecting their enclosure with a reptile safe cleaner will kill bacteria that can cause infections, which can lead to eye irritation or swelling. Make sure you remove any uneaten food, feces, and debris from the enclosure on a daily basis to keep it hygienic.

Bathing Your Bearded Dragon

Giving your bearded dragon baths on a regular basis is also an excellent way to prevent eye irritation caused by sand. Warm water helps loosen scales that may have become dry and scaly, making it easier for them to shed skin naturally. After soaking, use a soft cloth or brush to gently wipe away any remaining debris around their eyes.

The Best Substrates for Bearded Dragons

When selecting substrates for your bearded dragon, there are many safer options available than sand. Reptile carpets are easy to maintain, come in various colors, and allow your pet to move freely throughout its habitat without worrying about ingesting harmful particles they cannot digest properly.

Other popular options include paper towels or slate tiles; both offer easy cleanup while having no impact on humidity levels within the enclosure while also being safe for your pet. Avoid using wood shavings, sand, or other materials that can contain bacteria and irritate their eyes.

The Bottomline

Eye problems in bearded dragons are easily preventable when you take the right precautions. By creating a safe environment, regularly disinfecting your bearded dragon’s enclosure, giving them baths, and using the right substrate, you can help prevent eye problems caused by sand and ensure their health and well-being.

Conclusion

Don’t Let Sand Ruin Your Bearded Dragon’s Health

Taking care of your pet’s health and well-being is crucial. Sand in their eyes can be excruciatingly painful for them, and it can lead to more serious health problems if not treated properly. In this article, we discussed the symptoms that indicate a bearded dragon has sand in its eyes, the steps to safely remove sand from their eyes, and ways to prevent sand from getting into their eyes in the first place.

Remember that prevention is always better than treatment, so consider switching to safer substrates and removing any leftover food or debris that may attract insects. By doing so, you can provide a safer living environment for your beloved bearded dragon.