Monthly Features
29/10/2023
Chasey the charmer wins hearts
by Mornington Peninsula Magazine

Life doesn’t get much better than this.

Fiona Denny is a busy mother of two and the co-owner of Evolve Innate Health in Frankston alongside her business partner, Jodie. She’s also the proud owner of a pet that you won’t find in many households across Australia: a central bearded dragon named Chasey. This reptilian companion is a fascinating addition to Fiona’s family and has become an unexpected source of joy and entertainment.

Chasey, now eight years old, came into Fiona’s life after her daughter, Bella, fell in love with him at first sight and they quickly agreed to adopt him from their friends. As for his name, it wasn’t Fiona’s creativity at work on this occasion; they simply inherited the moniker, but decided it suited his charming and playful nature and kept it.

Chasey perches on Bella’s shoulder.

This is one bearded dragon with quite the savoury palate, his favourite treats being crickets and bok choy, which makes for some interesting grocery shopping trips for Fiona. Chasey enjoys occasional outings as well, venturing into the great outdoors where he basks in the sunshine while perched safely on someone’s shoulder.

Like all pets, Chasey has his quirks. One of his bad habits is not immediately chasing and catching the crickets given to him at mealtimes. This laissez-faire attitude leads to his enclosure occasionally being overrun with crickets; the easy-going Chasey contentedly watches the action going on around him while one of the kids finds the crickets he’s missed. Fiona lovingly describes him as “cool as a cucumber”, and despite the occasional cricket mishap, Chasey’s laid-back demeanour makes him a low-maintenance pet.

As for the naughtiest thing Chasey’s ever done, that would be leaving a stinky surprise on the tiles in front of guests. Sometimes even the most demure pets have their moments.

One of Fiona’s fondest memories is seeing Chasey hanging out in her daughter’s Barbie house, which she said has such perfect proportions for a bearded dragon that it’s as if the plastic paradise was custom-made for him.

For those contemplating the idea of owning a pet like Chasey, Fiona’s advice is simple: go for it. She never expected to fall in love with him, but Chasey has definitely found his forever home. She also recommends joining Facebook groups for excellent advice and tips.

With his whimsical antics and intriguing nature, Chasey is one reptile that has found a warm place in Fiona’s heart and home.

A couch in the Barbie house is the perfect spot for a central bearded dragon.