Fire Bearded Dragons are exotic and captivating creatures that can make wonderful pets. With their vibrant colors and unique appearance, these dragons are sure to be a striking addition to any reptile enthusiast’s home. But caring for a Fire Bearded Dragon requires knowledge and dedication in order to provide them with a happy and healthy life.
1. Creating the Perfect Habitat
One of the first steps in caring for a Fire Bearded Dragon is to create a suitable habitat. These dragons need a spacious terrarium with proper lighting, temperature, and humidity levels. A basking spot with a temperature of around 100-110°F (37-43°C) is crucial, as it allows the dragon to regulate its body temperature and digestion. Providing a UVB light source is also essential for their overall health and well-being.
2. Feeding and Diet
Fire Bearded Dragons are omnivorous, meaning they eat both insects and plant matter. A balanced diet consists of a variety of live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. Leafy greens and vegetables, like collard greens, kale, and butternut squash, should also be included in their diet. Avoid feeding them fruits high in sugar, as this can lead to health issues.
The Importance of Proper Care for a Fire Bearded Dragon
Caring for a fire bearded dragon is essential to ensure its overall health and well-being. These unique reptiles require specific care, attention, and a suitable habitat to thrive in captivity. Providing appropriate care for your fire bearded dragon is crucial for its growth, behavior, and longevity.
Creating a Suitable Habitat
Providing the Right Diet
A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for the health and well-being of fire bearded dragons. Their diet consists of a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits. The main portion of their diet should consist of live insects like crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. These insects should be gut loaded with nutritious food before feeding them to the bearded dragon.
Maintaining Proper Temperature
Fire bearded dragons require specific temperature gradients in their enclosure to regulate their body temperature effectively. This includes providing a basking spot with a temperature of around 100-110°F (37-43°C) and a cooler area with a temperature of around 80°F (27°C).
Using a combination of heat lamps, ceramic heat emitters, and thermostats can help maintain the proper temperature in the enclosure. Thermometers and temperature gauges should be placed in different areas of the enclosure to ensure accurate temperature monitoring.
Ensuring Adequate Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for the health and overall well-being of fire bearded dragons. They require both UVB and UVA light to support their metabolism, vitamin D3 synthesis, and behavioral patterns.
UVB lighting should be provided using fluorescent bulbs or mercury vapor bulbs, which should be replaced every 6-12 months to ensure optimal UVB output. UVA lighting can be provided using regular incandescent bulbs.
The distance between the bearded dragon and the UVB light source should be appropriate to ensure they receive the correct levels of UVB radiation. A UVB meter can be used to determine the optimal distance.
Hygiene and Health Tips
Maintaining proper hygiene and providing regular health checks are essential to prevent illnesses and ensure the well-being of fire bearded dragons.
Regular health checks should be done to monitor the bearded dragon’s overall appearance, body weight, and behavior. Any changes in their physical appearance or behavior should be addressed promptly by seeking veterinary care.
Fire bearded dragons are prone to certain health issues, including metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites. By providing proper care, a balanced diet, and a suitable habitat, the risk of these health issues can be minimized.
Creating a Suitable Habitat for Your Bearded Dragon
Tank Size
The first step in creating a suitable habitat is providing an adequately sized tank for your dragon. Adult bearded dragons require a minimum tank size of 40 gallons (150 liters), although larger tanks are always better. This allows them to have enough space to move around, explore, and exercise their natural behaviors.
It’s also important to provide a tank that has a secure lid to prevent escape and protect your dragon from potential predators or other household pets.
Substrate
Temperature and Lighting
Bearded dragons are ectothermic, which means they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Provide a basking spot with a temperature of around 95-110°F (35-43°C) during the day, along with a cooler side of the tank around 80°F (27°C). This temperature gradient allows your dragon to thermoregulate and choose the most comfortable spot based on their needs.
Full-spectrum UVB lighting is also essential for bearded dragons, as it helps them synthesize vitamin D3 and metabolize calcium properly. Choose a high-quality UVB bulb that covers at least two-thirds of the tank to ensure your dragon gets adequate exposure.
Enrichment and Hiding Spots
Bearded dragons, like any other reptile, need mental stimulation and enrichment in their habitat. Provide a variety of climbing branches, rocks, and hiding spots for them to explore and interact with. This will help mimic their natural environment and provide opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation.
Additionally, provide a separate hideout area where your dragon can retreat to when they feel stressed or want privacy. This can be a small cave or a specially designed reptile hide.
Hygiene and Cleaning
Maintaining proper hygiene in your dragon’s habitat is crucial for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and maintaining their overall health. Regularly clean and disinfect the tank, accessories, and water dishes to prevent the buildup of waste, bacteria, and parasites.
Make sure to use reptile-safe cleaning products and rinse everything thoroughly before reintroducing your bearded dragon to the habitat.
Providing the Right Diet for a Fire Bearded Dragon
One of the most crucial aspects of caring for a fire bearded dragon is ensuring it receives the right diet. Proper nutrition is essential for the dragon’s overall health, growth, and well-being.
A fire bearded dragon’s diet should consist of a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits. Insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches, should make up the majority of their diet. These insects provide essential proteins and nutrients that the dragon needs to thrive.
Offering a shallow dish of fresh, clean water is also crucial for the dragon’s hydration. Be sure to change the water daily to prevent bacterial growth.
It’s essential to monitor the dragon’s eating habits and adjust the diet accordingly. Young dragons may require more protein-rich insects, while adult dragons may benefit from more vegetables and fewer insects.
Maintaining Proper Temperature for Fire Bearded Dragons
One of the most crucial aspects of caring for a fire bearded dragon is maintaining the proper temperature in their habitat. These reptiles are ectothermic, which means they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. Failure to provide suitable temperatures can result in stress, illness, and even death for these beloved pets.
Temperature Range
A fire bearded dragon requires a temperature gradient within their enclosure to ensure they can thermoregulate effectively. The basking area should be around 95-105°F (35-40°C), while the cooler side of the habitat should be between 75-85°F (24-29°C). This temperature range allows the dragon to move between the warmer and cooler areas to regulate their body temperature as needed.
Heating Equipment
To achieve and maintain the appropriate temperatures, various heating equipment can be utilized. One of the most common options is a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter placed above the basking spot. This provides a direct source of heat for the dragon to absorb. It’s essential to use a thermometer to monitor the temperatures accurately and adjust the positioning of the heating equipment if necessary.
Thermostat and Timers
Using a thermostat is highly recommended to control the temperature and prevent overheating. Thermostats help regulate the output of heating equipment, ensuring a constant and safe temperature within the enclosure. Timers can also be used to simulate the dragon’s natural day and night cycle, providing them with a consistent light and temperature schedule.
Monitoring and Adjusting
Regular monitoring of the temperature inside the dragon’s enclosure is essential. Make sure to check the temperatures daily using a reliable thermometer. Additionally, consider using a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in the enclosure, as humidity can affect the overall temperature and comfort of the dragon.
Should the temperatures fall outside the recommended range, adjustments must be made. This may involve repositioning the heating equipment, adding or removing insulation in the enclosure, or upgrading to more powerful heating devices. It is essential to prioritize the well-being of the fire bearded dragon by providing them with the appropriate temperature gradient at all times.
By maintaining the proper temperature range in their habitat, fire bearded dragons can thrive and live a healthy, comfortable life.
Ensuring Adequate Lighting for Your Bearded Dragon
Proper lighting is crucial for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. In their natural habitat, they are exposed to direct sunlight, which provides them with essential UVB rays. UVB rays are necessary for the production of vitamin D3, which helps in the absorption of calcium.
The Importance of UVB Lighting
UVB lighting plays a vital role in preventing metabolic bone disease (MBD) in bearded dragons. MBD is a condition that occurs when the reptile’s body does not receive enough calcium to maintain healthy bone growth. Without sufficient UVB exposure, bearded dragons are unable to absorb calcium properly, leading to weakened bones, joint issues, and other health problems.
To simulate natural sunlight in their habitat, it is recommended to use a UVB light specifically designed for reptiles. These lights emit UVB rays that are essential for the bearded dragon’s overall health.
Choose the Right UVB Light
When selecting a UVB light for your bearded dragon, it is essential to choose one that provides the appropriate wavelength and intensity. The recommended UV Index for bearded dragons is between 3-6, which closely mimics the UV intensity they would receive in their natural environment.
One popular option is a linear fluorescent UVB bulb placed inside the terrarium. These bulbs should be replaced every 6-12 months to ensure they are emitting adequate UVB rays. Another option is a compact fluorescent UVB bulb, which is more suitable for smaller enclosures.
Positioning of the UVB Light
The positioning of the UVB light is crucial to ensure your bearded dragon receives optimal exposure. The light should be placed inside the enclosure and positioned perpendicular to the basking area. This setup allows the dragon to bask under both the heat and UVB light simultaneously.
It is crucial to monitor the distance between the basking spot and the UVB light. Generally, the recommended distance is around 12-18 inches. However, it is advisable to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific UVB light you are using, as distances can vary depending on the bulb’s intensity.
Regular Replacements
UVB bulbs gradually lose their intensity over time, even if they still appear to be emitting light. It is essential to replace the UVB bulbs regularly to ensure your bearded dragon receives the necessary UVB exposure.
Keep track of the date you installed the bulb and replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regularly inspect the bulb for any signs of damage or discoloration, as this can also affect its effectiveness.
In addition to UVB lighting, it is crucial to provide your bearded dragon with a heat source to maintain a proper temperature gradient in their enclosure. This can be achieved using a basking light or ceramic heat emitter.
By providing adequate lighting, both UVB and heat, you can ensure the overall health and well-being of your bearded dragon. Remember to regularly monitor the lighting setup and make any necessary adjustments to provide the best care for your reptile companion.
Hygiene and Health Tips for Caring for a Bearded Dragon
Proper hygiene and health care are crucial to ensure the well-being of your pet bearded dragon. By following these tips, you can maintain a clean and healthy environment for your dragon.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your dragon’s enclosure are essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Here are some important steps to follow:
1. Cleaning the Tank
Start by removing any uneaten food, feces, shed skin, or other debris from the tank daily. Use a reptile-safe disinfectant to clean the tank and accessories, such as rocks or branches, at least once a month.
2. Changing the Substrate
Bearded dragons may accidentally ingest loose substrate, which can cause serious health issues. Consider using reptile carpet, ceramic tiles, or paper towels as a safe and easy-to-clean substrate option. Replace the substrate regularly to maintain cleanliness.
3. Providing Clean Water
Ensure that your dragon always has access to clean and fresh water. Change the water daily and clean the water dish thoroughly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Bathing Your Bearded Dragon
Regular bathing is not only a great way to keep your dragon clean but also helps with shedding. Here’s how to properly bathe your bearded dragon:
1. Prepare a Warm Bath
Fill a shallow container with warm water, making sure the depth is not too high for your dragon to drown. The ideal water temperature should be around 85-90°F (29-32°C).
2. Gently Place Your Dragon in the Bath
Supporting your dragon’s body, lower it into the water and allow it to soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will help your dragon stay hydrated and aid in the shedding process.
3. Monitor Your Dragon
Keep a close eye on your dragon during the bath to ensure its safety. Never leave your dragon unattended while bathing.
4. Dry Your Dragon
After the bath, gently pat your dragon dry with a soft towel, making sure to remove any excess water from its scales.
Maintaining Optimal Health
A healthy diet and appropriate environmental conditions are key to keeping your bearded dragon in good health. Here are some additional tips to consider:
1. Nutritious Diet
Feed your dragon a well-balanced diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, and insects to provide essential nutrients. Consult a veterinarian or reptile nutritionist to ensure your dragon’s diet meets its specific needs.
2. Monitoring Temperature
Maintain the correct temperature gradient within the enclosure, providing a basking spot with a temperature of around 95-105°F (35-40°C) and a cooler area around 80°F (27°C).
3. UVB Lighting
Bearded dragons require access to UVB lighting to synthesize vitamin D and absorb calcium. Use a UVB bulb specifically designed for reptiles and replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
By following these hygiene and health tips, you can provide your bearded dragon with a clean and healthy living environment, ensuring its overall well-being and longevity. It’s also essential to seek veterinary care and expert advice whenever necessary to address any health concerns or issues.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring the health and well-being of your fire bearded dragon. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for your pet.
Cage Cleaning:
Substrate Maintenance:
The substrate in your bearded dragon’s enclosure should be spot-cleaned daily to remove any feces or soiled areas. This can be done using a scooper or tongs to lift the waste without disturbing the rest of the substrate. Regularly monitor the cleanliness of the substrate and replace it entirely every few weeks to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and parasites.
Water Bowl Cleaning:
Bearded dragons require access to clean and fresh water at all times. The water bowl should be cleaned and refilled daily to remove any debris or bacteria. Use a mild reptile-safe disinfectant and warm water to clean the bowl thoroughly, ensuring to rinse it well before refilling it with fresh water.
Accessories and Decorations:
Any accessories, such as rocks, branches, or hides, should be regularly cleaned and disinfected. This helps to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and parasites. Scrub them with warm water and reptile-safe disinfectant, ensuring to rinse them well before placing them back in the enclosure.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of your fire bearded dragon. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a clean and hygienic environment for your pet and prevent the risk of diseases or infections.
Handling and Socialization
Handling and socialization are essential aspects of caring for a fire bearded dragon. These activities not only help to establish trust and bonding between you and your dragon but also contribute to their overall well-being and mental stimulation.
Why is handling important?
How to handle a fire bearded dragon?
Here are some tips for handling your fire bearded dragon:
- Wash your hands before handling to remove any strong scents or residue that may cause discomfort to your dragon.
- Approach your dragon slowly and avoid sudden movements that might startle them.
- Support their body and legs properly while lifting, ensuring that they feel secure.
- Avoid gripping or squeezing your dragon too tightly, as this can cause stress and potential injury.
- Allow your dragon to explore your hands and arms at their own pace. Do not force them into uncomfortable situations.
- Gradually increase the duration of handling sessions as your dragon becomes more comfortable.
- Observe your dragon’s body language during handling. If they show signs of stress or discomfort, gently place them back in their enclosure.
Socialization and environmental enrichment
Fire bearded dragons are naturally curious and benefit from interacting with their environment. Providing a variety of toys, branches, and climbing structures in their enclosure can enhance their physical and mental well-being. Regular socialization experiences outside of their enclosure, such as supervised exploration in a safe space or gentle interactions with humans, can also be beneficial.
Important note: It is essential to ensure that any materials or objects provided for socialization and environmental enrichment are safe, clean, and pose no risk of injury or ingestion for your fire bearded dragon.
Preventing Common Diseases for Your Fire Bearded Dragon
1. Maintaining a Clean Enclosure
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting the dragon’s enclosure is essential to prevent the spread of diseases. Remove any waste, uneaten food, and debris daily. Use a reptile-safe disinfectant to clean the enclosure, making sure to rinse it thoroughly before reintroducing your dragon.
2. Providing a Nutritious Diet
A balanced and varied diet is crucial for a fire bearded dragon’s health. Feed them a combination of insects, such as crickets or mealworms, and fresh vegetables. Ensure that the insects are properly gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding them to your dragon. This will help prevent nutritional deficiencies and subsequent diseases.
3. Monitoring and Maintaining Proper Temperature
Fire bearded dragons require specific temperature ranges to thrive. Maintaining a proper temperature gradient in their enclosure is crucial to their overall health. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heating elements accordingly. Incorrect temperatures can weaken the dragon’s immune system, making them more susceptible to diseases.
4. Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups for your fire bearded dragon. A reptile-experienced veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to detect any potential health issues early on and provide appropriate treatment. Make sure to follow their advice and recommendations for preventive care.
5. Monitoring Hydration
Proper hydration is vital for your dragon’s health. Ensure that they always have access to fresh, clean water. Additionally, misting their enclosure regularly can help maintain optimal humidity levels. Dehydration can lead to various health problems, so it’s essential to monitor their hydration status.
6. Proper Quarantine Procedures
When introducing a new dragon to your existing collection or acquiring a dragon from another source, it’s crucial to quarantine them. Quarantine helps prevent the spread of potential diseases to your other dragons. Keep the new dragon in a separate enclosure for at least 30-60 days, monitoring their health closely before introducing them to the others.
7. Socialization and Stress Reduction
Stress can weaken the immune system of your fire bearded dragon, making them more vulnerable to diseases. Provide them with ample opportunities for socialization and mental stimulation. Handle them gently and avoid sudden loud noises or other stress-inducing stimuli. A stress-free environment promotes better overall health.
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of common diseases and ensure a long and healthy life for your fire bearded dragon.
Mating
Egg Laying
Incubation
Hatching
Caring for Hatchlings
Fire bearded dragon hatchlings require specialized care to ensure their health and proper growth. They should be provided with a smaller enclosure, appropriate temperatures, and UVB lighting. The diet should consist of small insects and greens, gradually transitioning to a diet similar to that of adult dragons. Regular monitoring of their health and growth is essential to identify any potential issues and provide timely intervention.
Conclusion
Caring for Fire Bearded Dragon Eggs and Hatchlings
Caring for fire bearded dragon eggs and hatchlings is an exciting but delicate process. By following the proper steps, you can increase the chances of a successful hatching and ensure the health and well-being of the young dragons.
1. Monitoring the Incubation
Once the female fire bearded dragon lays her eggs, it is crucial to carefully monitor the incubation process. Maintain a consistent temperature of around 82 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (28 to 29 degrees Celsius) and a humidity level of approximately 70% to 80%. Regularly check the temperature and moisture levels within the incubator to ensure they remain stable.
2. Egg Positioning
3. Egg Incubation
Transfer the eggs to an appropriate incubation container with a suitable incubation medium such as vermiculite or perlite mixed with water. Make sure the eggs are partially buried in the medium but not completely submerged. This allows for proper gas exchange and prevents the eggs from drying out.
4. Incubation Duration
The incubation period for fire bearded dragon eggs usually ranges from 60 to 85 days. Monitor the eggs closely during this time, checking for any signs of mold, discoloration, or abnormal development. Be patient throughout the incubation period, as hatching timing can vary.
5. Hatching Process
Warning: The hatching process can take several hours or even days. Do not attempt to intervene unless you notice the hatchling struggling for an extended period or shows signs of distress.
6. Post-Hatching Care
Once the hatchlings have emerged, leave them in the incubation container until they have absorbed their yolk sac completely. During this time, they do not require food and depend on the nutrients from their yolk sac. Once the yolk sac has been absorbed, transfer the hatchlings to a suitable enclosure with appropriate temperature, UVB lighting, and a diet of appropriately sized live insects.
Caring for Bearded Dragon Eggs and Hatchlings
1. Incubation
The eggs should be carefully removed from the enclosure and placed in an incubator. The temperature and humidity levels in the incubator should be carefully monitored and adjusted to mimic the conditions of a natural nest.
2. Temperature
The temperature within the incubator should be maintained between 80-85°F (27-29°C). This temperature range allows for proper development of the embryos. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, as this can negatively impact the development of the eggs.
3. Humidity
The humidity level in the incubator should be kept around 70%. This will help prevent the eggs from drying out and ensure proper moisture levels for development.
4. Egg Rotation
5. Incubation Period
The incubation period for bearded dragon eggs is typically around 60-70 days. However, this can vary depending on factors such as temperature and genetics.
6. Hatching
7. Hatchling Care
After the hatchlings have fully emerged from their shells, they should be carefully moved to a separate enclosure with appropriate heat and lighting. Provide small food items, such as pinhead crickets or small insects, for them to eat. It is also important to provide a shallow water dish for hydration.
Remember, caring for bearded dragon eggs and hatchlings requires attention to detail and careful monitoring of temperature and humidity levels. By providing the right conditions and care, you can help ensure the healthy development and survival of these fascinating creatures.
Additional Considerations for Caring for Your Fire Bearded Dragon
1. Consider the Size of the Enclosure
As your fire bearded dragon grows, it will require a larger enclosure to accommodate its size. Make sure to regularly assess the size of the enclosure and upgrade if necessary to provide your dragon with enough space to move around comfortably.
2. Provide Hiding Places
Fire bearded dragons need access to hiding places within their enclosure to feel safe and secure. You can add rocks, logs, or caves that your dragon can use for shelter. This will help reduce stress and create a more natural habitat for your pet.
3. Offer Enrichment Activities
Fire bearded dragons are intelligent creatures that require mental stimulation. Consider providing them with enrichment activities such as puzzles, toys, or even supervised time outside of their enclosure to explore their surroundings. This will help prevent boredom and promote overall well-being.
4. Avoid Overfeeding
5. Be Mindful of Handling
By considering these additional factors, you can ensure that your fire bearded dragon thrives in its habitat and enjoys a long and healthy life. Remember to regularly observe your dragon’s behavior and consult with a reptile veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions.
Managing Behavior and Enclosure Upgrades
1. Environmental Enrichment: Fire bearded dragons are intelligent creatures that need mental stimulation. Providing various forms of environmental enrichment, such as hiding spots, climbing structures, and toys, can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
2. Enclosure Size: As your bearded dragon grows, it may require a larger enclosure to accommodate its needs comfortably. Make sure to periodically assess the enclosure size and upgrade it accordingly to provide adequate space for your dragon to move around and exercise.
3. Temperature Gradient: Bearded dragons need a temperature gradient within their enclosure to regulate their body temperature. Ensure that you have a temperature gradient set up, with a basking area where they can warm up and a cooler area where they can retreat to if they feel too hot.
4. Humidity Control: Maintaining the right humidity levels is also essential for the health of your bearded dragon. Install a hygrometer in the enclosure to monitor humidity levels and make adjustments as needed to keep it within the recommended range.
5. Monitor Behavior: Pay close attention to your dragon’s behavior and look out for any signs of distress or unusual behavior. Bearded dragons can exhibit signs of stress, such as loss of appetite, aggression, or lethargy. If you notice any concerning behavior, consult a veterinarian for appropriate advice.
6. Enclosure Upgrades: Regularly assess the condition of the enclosure and make necessary upgrades to ensure the safety and comfort of your dragon. This includes checking for any damages, replacing worn-out items, and improving the overall aesthetics of the enclosure.
7. Provide a Hiding Spot: Bearded dragons need a place to retreat and feel secure. Place a hiding spot, such as a cave or a log, in the enclosure where your dragon can retreat when it feels the need for privacy or rest.
By managing behavior and providing suitable enclosure upgrades, you can ensure the overall well-being and happiness of your fire bearded dragon.
Seeking Veterinary Care and Expert Advice
When caring for a fire bearded dragon, it is crucial to seek veterinary care and expert advice. These reptiles require specialized care, and it is essential to have a professional who can provide guidance and assistance.
Veterinary care is necessary for routine check-ups, as well as in case of any health concerns or emergencies. A reptile veterinarian with experience in treating bearded dragons will be able to diagnose and treat any medical issues that may arise.
In addition to veterinary care, seeking expert advice is also beneficial. There are several resources available for fire bearded dragon owners, such as reptile forums, online communities, and specialty reptile stores. These sources can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on personal experiences.
Experts can provide information on enclosure upgrades, behavioral issues, and tips for managing the overall health and well-being of the fire bearded dragon. They may also offer advice on handling techniques, socialization, and the proper ways to interact with the reptile.
Remember, every fire bearded dragon is unique, and their needs can vary. Therefore, it is essential to consult with professionals who have extensive knowledge and experience with these reptiles to ensure the best care possible.
