How do you feed a juvenile bearded dragon a cactus pear/leaf?

Question

I recently found access to rare cactus pears/leaves/pads - they're rare in Northern VA, at least, lol. Has anyone ever fed these to their beardies? Mine is relatively small - just short of 8 inches now. I understand basic cricket guidelines and with his leafy veggies and carrots - the whole width between the eyes thing - does this hold true for cactus pears and pads as well? I want to know because I wondered if I was just supposed to place it in the cage whole and he just tears it off when he eats it (or something like that). I'd like an answer from an experienced person who has actually fed their beardie this or knows for sure - no guessing. If I don't get an answer here I can always call the vet and ask, I just hate phones.

PS: My beardie has been receiving ZooMed Repti Shed Aid for recurring shedding problems the daily for the past five days. He start rubbing the sides of his head on his Reptile Carpet. I suppose this is part of the shedding process, but wouldn't he normally use one of the rocks or "trees" in his environment rather than the substrate? It's just odd behavior, in my opinion.

Answer 1

I fed this before, my Beardie absolutely loves them!  Unfortunately, the place I got them from stopped carrying them, you are lucky.  

At any rate, carefully peel the entire skin off with a knife, making sure all of the spines get off in the process.  You can also rinse it after that to make sure that none of the spines are sticking to it.  Then cut the flesh (throw away the skin and spines, the spines can really hurt him) into small pieces just like you would any other veggie/fruit/green.  

Answer 2

i dont think any1 feeds these to there beardies im not really sure why some1 would want to. and dont some species of prickly pear contain poison.

i would advise against the whole idea