Preparing Your Reptile for a Move

Preparing Your Reptile for a Move

Make the right transportation arrangements to avoid throwing your reptile into a tizzy.

When you're going somewhere new, you can't simply put a collar and leash on your iguana and jump in the family car or place your python in a carrier and catch a convenient flight. You'll have to make detailed preparations. Lizards, snakes, turtles and other reptiles require specific care all of the time, but it's especially critical when they're going on a trip or moving to a new home.

One of the possible consequences for your reptile is stress, which can cause serious and even fatal reactions. On the flip side, you might stress out your herp by leaving him at home, but you can easily lessen the impact of your absence by having a reptile-loving pet-sitter or friend care for him while you're away. Before you depart, have this person visit regularly and take part in all the tasks of looking after your reptile. You will, of course, have to pay a pet-sitter for this time, but if your pet has a chance to become used to the caregiver, he'll probably stay relatively calm while you're gone.

Sometimes, for instance when you're moving, you don't have the option of leaving your reptile where he is. Though he may appear calm during the move, keep in mind that any kind of transportation is stressful to reptiles. Even moving his habitat from one room to another could cause stress, if you aren't careful. Avoid prolonging his state of stress by making the trip as short as possible.

Shipping Options

Commercial parcel delivery services usually do not accept live animals, but some airlines accept reptiles as cargo. Most of these airlines are good about keeping packages containing animals in a warm place when it's cold or in a cool place when it's hot. Plus, some specialty shipping firms deal with reptiles. A Web search should help you find one of these firms.

No matter what method you choose, be sure to get all the details about how to prepare your pet and his habitat. You must make sure the shipping container maintains your pet's environmental requirements and it's clearly labeled with your name, address and telephone number and marked 'Live Animal' or a similar notice. Check with the shipper for specific labeling requirements. Clearly write temperature requirements in an obvious place on the container.

Preparations

Prior to moving your pet, monitor his behavior even more closely than usual. Be alert to any signs of altered behavior that could indicate illness. You should never transport a sick or injured reptile except to seek veterinary assistance.

As you know, the specifics of a reptile's environment are critical to his health. Therefore, you must take special care to maintain a healthful temperature, humidity level and provide any necessary food and water. If possible, transport your pet in his own habitat so he stays in familiar surroundings. If this isn't possible, you can purchase a special travel habitat designed to help maintain proper temperature and humidity. Some travel habitats do this on self-contained battery power.

Another key consideration is whether the transport container is secure. Snakes, in particular, are notorious escape artists. No matter what kind of pet you have, make sure he couldn't possibly get out. Check on him as frequently as possible during the trip.

Some reptiles, depending on species, can be placed in a cloth bag or a cotton pillowcase. This helps keep them calm and lowers the chance of injury. Pack the bag in a Styrofoam box. Your local pet store may carry tropical fish boxes, which are ideal for this purpose. Find out how cold the cargo area gets. For very low temperatures, you may want to tape a chemical hand warmer to the lid of the box. For a large lizard, however, you may be able to use a sky kennel, depending on the airline's rules. Be sure the kennel is securely locked.

If you're transporting an aquatic reptile, be aware that the water will make his habitat quite heavy. Alert shippers or airline personnel about this, and let them know if you will need help carrying the cage.

You should know that you probably won't be allowed to keep your pet with you on a flight. Most airlines allow reptiles to travel only as cargo. Make reservations with the airline well in advance, and notify the staff that you will be shipping your reptile. Ask for complete details on regulations and requirements. While some airlines have strict rules for acceptance, others may not transport a reptile under any conditions. As a final precaution, confirm your arrangements with the airline the night before your trip or at least six hours before you arrive at the airport.

Entering New Places

Transporting a reptile often entails getting permits, supplying other documentation including health certificates, and putting the animal into quarantine. Check with your veterinarian or the state livestock commission for your destination as well as for locations along your route to determine what documents you'll need and which restrictions might apply to your pet. Some foreign countries prohibit the import of certain animals. Be sure to learn about such regulations long before you start packing.

Home Sweet Home

If you'll be putting your pet into a new habitat at your destination, try to have it ready for him when he arrives. You want your rambling reptile to start getting over the stress of the trip as soon as possible. Place the cage in a quiet spot away from the main areas of household activity. Avoid moving it again. Furnish it with the necessary food and water, and make sure it's reached the proper temperature and humidity before putting your pet inside. Once he's in his new home, don't add or change anything for a while, and try not to disturb him.

Keep a close eye on your pet for several days. But if all went well, he should be just fine.