PSA: You & Your Pocket Dragon
They are cute, they are loyal, they are the hottest new pet on the scene! But are you ready to own one? Here’s everything you need to know about keeping a Pocket Dragon!
Size: Like the name implies, these benign little dragons are very small. Small enough to curl up in your pocket! However, there is always a chance that your dragon might end up being one of the few who keep growing! Some of them have been recorded to reach the size of a labrador, so be prepared!
Selection: How do you know which dragon is right for you? Don’t worry, the dragon will know! Reputable breeders will only let you take one that has bonded to you and you really shouldn't try to get them any other way. Always remember the old saying: before you kidnap a dragon, better double check your home insurance.
Housing: Don’t let their description fool you, pocket dragons are quite happy outside of a pocket. But keeping them cooped up inside is not good for their welfare, they like to travel! So if you do not take them along with you when you go out, you must make sure to give them plenty of enrichment and change of scenery. They like warmth, so giving them a little nest is always good, they may sleep in the pockets of hung up coats. If you live somewhere colder, they may opt to sleep in the fireplace. Providing their nest with a heat lamp or warming pad is good. Be careful with kitchens, they might try to crawl into a hot oven or toaster. This is not dangerous for them, but will not be conducive to your cooking.
Diet: No need to worry about your little guy chasing after other animals, this type of dragon is generally very happy on a diet of fruit and cream. Should the dragon that chooses you be of a more omnivorious persuasion, a few bacon bits here and there should satisfy their cravings. Please note that while most of them go absolutely wild for chocolate, this should only be used as a treat and not as a regular meal.
Behaviour: Pocket dragons are curious, intelligent and very affectionate. They will love being near you, which is why they love riding in pockets and handbags. When it's a nice sunny day out, they may want to ride on your shoulder or lie draped around your neck. While they can fly, they often prefer to waddle.
Temper: Pocket dragons are more prone to sulking than fighting, but they may bite the fingers of people trying to pet them without asking politely.
Hoards: A dragon’s hoarding tendencies are probably its most defining characteristic and there is no arguing with them. Pocket dragons have a habit of selecting a comfort-hoarding item when they are still small and they must never be forcefully separated from it. Apart from this pocket dragons are fairly low-maintenance in the hoarding department, but it is best to keep them away from jewellery boxes and one must accept that any spare change dropped into a pocket occupied by a dragon, is now theirs. We advise owners to make very clear agreement with your dragon about any keys accidentally put into their pocket. (And maybe keep a stash of spare, shinier keys to trade with for the more stubborn ones.)
Dragons in pairs: Pocket dragons are largely solitary, but when they do pari up, they mate for life. So don't try that unless you are ready to commit to having a flock (and to never seeing your silver teaspoons again). If you’d really like to keep a pair, your best bet is getting two siblings from the same nest.
Other Pets:
Do pocket dragons get along with other animals? This depends largely on the animal, of course, but in general:
Cats: When properly introduced and socialised, yes. But they may not interact much. Works best if they are both babies when introduced.
Dogs: When either dragon or dog is still young when introduced, usually very well.
Ferrets: No. They do not get along. And when they do, it is Disastrous. Please don’t.
This message is brought to you by @orestesdreams-pyladesloves of the Domestic Dragon Trust (who donated to the Bishop Myriel Fundraiser in return for this commission ^^)
