Caring for Your Pet Reptile During Holiday Travel

Consider the Options for Ensuring Your Pet’s Care

Over the river and through the woods...with your pet beardie along for the ride?

If you are planning to travel during the upcoming holidays, you are probably already thinking about how you will maintain your reptile’s care. A few reptiles, like snakes, may only require feedings several times a month and can be fine without care for several days. Other reptiles, like bearded dragons, need daily care, including misting and fresh water and food.

If you are a bearded dragon owner preparing to go on a trip, you have several options for how you will ensure your pet is cared for while you are gone:

1. Ask a friend or family member to care for your reptile in your home. If they would prefer, and you feel comfortable doing so, you can offer to set up your reptile’s enclosure and all of his supplies in their home during your trip.
2. Board your reptile at a local pet care facility or hire a professional pet sitter.
3. Bring your reptile with you.

Keep in mind that bearded dragons are easily stressed by changes to their environment. If at all possible, it is best to keep them at home, in their enclosure, and with the normal care routine they are well accustomed to.

If a friend or family member is willing to visit your home while you are gone to provide care for your dragon, make it as easy as possible for them:

• Have live feeder insects like Dubia roaches ready in a separate enclosure for easy feeding.
• Clean, chop, and package portions of fresh greens or vegetables in plastic bags.
• Prepare a full bottle of water for misting your dragon and note his usual misting schedule.
• Stock up on some extra bulbs and other essential supplies and set them out where they can easily be found if needed.
• Provide clear instructions for caring for your dragon, along with contact information for your veterinarian or a local animal clinic in case of an emergency.

If you are unable to find a friend or family member willing to care for your pet, you may consider using an online service to contact an available reptile caregiver. You can call your local pet store or your veterinarian’s office to see if any employees would be interested in the job. There are also boarding facilities available with trained professionals that can care for reptiles. If you choose to board your pet, you will likely need to supply his enclosure along with all necessary supplies.

Your last option is to bring your reptile with you. If you are traveling a short distance by car, this may be possible, but it will not be easy. You will need to plan well in advance in order to bring your pet’s enclosure and all the essential equipment and supplies to maintain his environment once you reach your destination. It will also be critical to keep your pet warm and comfortable during the car ride.

If we can provide additional guidance or advice as you plan your pet’s care for the holidays, please reach out. Our goal is to help you provide the best possible care for your reptile.

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