By Laurie Marion

An Australian Bearded Dragon
Photo by Ellery McLanahan, used with permission

On Wednesday, December 2, 2015, around 5 p.m., Ellery McLanahan discovered an unusual guest in the forest. He posted this photo on Facebook asking if anyone knew anything about this lizard. Though I did not know much about them, I offered to help because obviously this was not the right place or climate for this type of animal. Ellery knocked on my front door around 6:30 and we went into the forest and rescued this Australian Bearded Dragon.

I kept it in a cat carrier overnight in a very warm room. Fortunately, by the next morning someone who already had a terrarium and other equipment for taking care of reptiles offered to keep it until its owner claimed it.

The American Veterinary Medical Association website contains important information about pet ownership:

Owning a pet is a privilege, but the benefits of pet ownership come with responsibilities. Be a Responsible Pet Owner: Commit. Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet.  (more at Responsible Pet Ownership)

The Briarlake Forest Park was created by DeKalb County in response to people in this community exercising responsible citizenship. It is my hope that this community will show an exemplary level of responsibility towards all living things.