Moving with Pets in Encinitas – Exotic Pets

Recently I’ve given readers many tips for moving with cats and dogs, but what if you have more exotic pets? Exotic pets like reptiles and birds require very special day-to-day care, and moving to a new home can be especially difficult for exotic pet owners.

Just because your exotic pets may not be as cuddly or affectionate as cats or dogs, they still deserve the best care possible when moving. Here are some tips to help make your move as stress-free on your pets as possible:

Reptiles

Reptiles are one of the most common types of exotic pets, and they require a carefully maintained environment. Make sure that the carrier you place your reptiles in are large enough for them to move around in, without a lot of extra objects that could fall over and injure them during transport. Place damp blankets or towels in the bottom of the carrier if your reptiles require a wet environment. Reptiles can be packed in boxes, but venomous pets like certain breeds of snakes should be double-boxed.

If you’re using a moving service, or shipping your reptiles long distance, make sure to clearly label their containers with both the common and scientific names of the reptiles inside. Also mark the boxes with things like “live cargo” and “keep at room temperature.” The main danger of shipping reptiles is changes in temperature, so keep this in mind when moving them, and try to ensure their exposure to extreme heat or cold is limited.

Small Mammals

For small mammals like hamsters and guinea pigs, their normal containers are ideal for moving. Make sure to remove their food and water containers during transport, because they could injure the animals if they fall over. If you’re moving them long distance, stop at rest areas periodically to give them food and water. Try to maintain a comfortable temperature for them, and avoid parking in direct sunlight.

Birds

Birds are typically very sensitive, and can be easily stressed. It’s important to do all you can to keep them calm and relaxed during the move. Once you have decided how you plan to move, consider how their cage will fare during transport. If your bird is in a tall cage that could potentially tip over in the back of a moving truck, you may want to buy a cage that is more stable. You can buy cages specifically designed for transport, which may be a safer and more secure way to move your bird.

If you don’t already have one, a cage cover can also significantly lower your bird’s stress level during a move. Once you’re in your new home, make sure to give your bird plenty of space in a quiet room while you continue moving boxes in.

With any luck, these tips will help you make moving with your exotic pets a little easier for the whole family!

By Linda Moore

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