Hi,
I’m totally new to bearded dragons.
I used to have a few reptiles when I was younger (corn snake / Leopard Gecko / Chilean Red Rose Tarantula / Emperor Scorpion).
I’m married now with two kids and have finally talked the wife into allowing me to get a reptile.
I’ve obviously chosen the Bearded dragon.
I have a few questions:
1. I’ve been looking around at vivariums and think I’ve decided upon the vivexotic Viva range (medium). I ideally would like the terrestrial tank, but have seen the Arboreal too.
The Arboreal is nearly double the price, and double the height.
My question is, do I need the Arboreal for the dragon? If I bought the terrestrial tank, would I have room for the Basking light?
Terrestrial: Width 862.5, Depth 490, Height 434
http://www.livefoods.co.uk/product_info ... nut-p-2121Arboreal: Width 862.5, Depth 490, Height 915
http://www.livefoods.co.uk/product_info ... nut-p-2139I’ve also seen the Bearded dragon specific tank in this range, but it only comes in oak and my living room is Dark wood, so would need the Walnut finish tank…plus it’s a bit bigger than I can get away with (It’s going next to a 3 foot tropical aquarium, and I’ve been told no bigger than that).
2. What is the best Basking light to get for the dragons? And what’s the best fitment? Would I need to cut a hole in the top of the viv?
3. What other lighting do I need?
4. Is Reptile carpet ok for the Dragon?
5. I intend on getting a baby/juvenile dragon. Would this tank be ok? What should I be looking for when purchasing it? Health problems to look out for? I don't want to have to change tanks as it gets bigger.
6. I live in Essex (Thurrock), can anyone recommend any decent reptile shops to buy the dragon from? I used to use Wiltons reptile shop in Pitsea. It’s still there but not sure how good it is anymore
7. Lastly, am I likely to see a substantial rise in my electric bill? I notice you need the basking light on all the time
Anymore advice for a total newbie to this scene would be much appreciated.
Just for info, my two sons are 6 and 3 and both looking forward to their new pet (although my wife isn’t

Thanks