tips for handling gippsland water dragons

[haydenvic]

i have 2 gippsland water dragons and need some tips on handling them as they are really skitish they freak out when i open their tank and when i do have them out all they seem to do is run. can anyone give me tips on how to calm them down enough to handle them better??

 

[KaotikJezta]

Patience and perseverance is all I can suggest.

 

[haydenvic]

yeah ok thanks

 

[KaotikJezta]

Sorry, they really do take a lot of patience and then there is no guarantees. Lucky they are awesome to look at.

 

[mad_at_arms]

With my eastern I started with short rubs under the chin. 2 secs max (if she was willing). Slowly I increased the length of rubs. Also try just touching them ( rest a finger gentle on say an arm or leg) Then take your hand away. They will realise that you aren't a threat eventually.

 

[user 16324]

over the course of the day introduce a few crickets feeding by hand and then touching the dragon on the back very slowly and dont make any sudden movements. they will eventually think you are safe

 

[haydenvic]

thanks everyone i will try what you have all said

 

[mad_at_arms]

Oops.

 

[haydenvic]

Oops.

thanks ill give a go

 

[Allybean]

and put them on their backs.... sooo cute when nthey play dead

 

[Jdsixtyone]

I wouldnt call Water Dragons very 'handleable'. They are more pit animals but they can be tamed pretty well, just times alot of time.

 

[KaotikJezta]

Pretty sure putting them on their back is not good for them.

 

[Jdsixtyone]

It knocks them out.....

 

[KaotikJezta]

It knocks them out.....

Yeah, it messes with their breathing doesn't it.

 

[Allybean]

Oh sheez.. thats not good! I didnt know that.. On second thoughts DONT put them on thier back!

 

[user 16324]

They have very limited muscle between their lungs and ribs and putting them on their back can make them pass out or go unconscious.

 

[haydenvic]

Turbo & Kinky my Gippsland Water Dragons | Facebook i think ill just take my time with them ill try hand feeding the till they feel comfortable with my hands in their enclosure. thanks everyone for your help

 

[timantula]

heres a wild eastern water dragon that has been somewhat tamed..‪Eastern Water Dragon‬‏ - YouTube

 

[haydenvic]

heres a wild eastern water dragon that has been somewhat tamed..‪Eastern Water Dragon‬‏ - YouTube

thats cool is that you?? ive seen that vid a few times.

 

[timantula]

thats cool is that you?? ive seen that vid a few times.

no its not me, but i do wish my ewd was that tame, mine sounds like yours and ive been trying to tame him for about 6 months now, hes getting better but its taking a long time...