Caring for Your Reptile on Vacations

Vacations can be tough for pet owners, and sometimes even worse for reptile owners whose pets are often met with fear and misunderstanding. Though it may sometimes be easier to leave your pet at home with a sitter, this isn’t always feasible. Below are some guidelines for reptile vacations:

Taking Your Reptile With You: Sometimes, you just can’t be apart from your beloved pet. Remember, though, that bringing your reptile with you on vacation isn’t easy. Many reptiles can become very stressed due to travel or new environments. If you know that your reptile is easily stressed, you should probably consider other options. If your reptile is an intrepid voyager, though, follow these tips for a safe and headache-free trip:

• Pre-Trip Checkup: Before you commit to going on a vacation with your reptile, make sure you take him on a shorter trip: to the veterinarian. You should let your veterinarian know all about your planned excursion, from the length of the trip, to the locations, accommodations, and transportation. Make sure your pet is in top condition for the voyage. Laws on reptiles vary across America, so make sure you get the health certifications that you may need.
• Find the Proper Accommodations: Before you book a hotel, be sure to call and check that it is not only pet-friendly, but specifically reptile-friendly. Make sure you know your hotels’ rules for pets and be able to work with them. It is not wise to show up with an unannounced reptile.
• Travel Well: You may want to consider using special travel cages or tanks. It will help your reptile feel more comfortable and prevent him from escaping, which would be even worse in a strange area. If your reptile is a water-dweller, make sure that he has enough water in his carrier to completely cover him.
• Keep a Schedule: Though vacations can be hectic, if you try to normalize your reptile’s eating and sleeping times, it will make the trip much easier on him.
• Know Your Pet’s Needs: When you take your pet on vacation, make sure you bring all the food and medicine you think he may need. You don’t want to be away from home and unprepared.

Leaving Your Reptile With a Boarder: For those who cannot take their pet reptile on vacation with them, boarding houses are another option. Here are some ways to make the best out of this decision.

• Similar to if you were taking your reptile on vacation, the first thing you should do if you are boarding him is visit the veterinarian and get his health certifications in order. Boarders may not accept him without these.
• Always inspect the boarding facilities before you leave your reptile there. Make sure they are up to code, safe, and clean. Ask the boarders any questions you have beforehand.
• Make sure the boarding facility knows and understands the needs of your reptile. You should let them know his eating habits, temperament, and health concerns. Always leave them your number and your veterinarian’s number.