Moving house can be a stressful time for anyone, but if you have pet reptiles it can present an additional set of challenges. 

Reptiles require specific environmental conditions, including temperature and humidity control, in order to thrive, so the process of relocating them can be daunting. However, with a bit of foresight and preparation, you can ensure your reptile is safe, healthy, and happy throughout the moving process.

Read our other guides: Moving with Pets: What to Do Before, During and After the Move

Why is moving house with reptiles difficult?

Reptiles have become increasingly popular pets due to their low-maintenance requirements and long lifespan. While they may not be as cuddly or affectionate as dogs or cats, many reptile species can form strong bonds with their owners and enrich their lives in many ways. However, taking care of reptiles does require some specialised knowledge and understanding of their needs. Moving house with your reptile is one such situation that requires careful preparation and planning.

Pre-Move Planning

Before the move, especially if you are doing an international move, you should research any regulations and rules that may apply to transporting exotic animals in your country. If you are planning a long-distance move, you should also investigate the specific requirements of airlines or other transportation companies for travelling with reptiles. Additionally, it is wise to make arrangements with your veterinarian prior to the move to have your reptile checked for health issues and obtain any necessary health certificates.

In addition to researching the regulations, you should also make sure that you have an appropriate travel carrier for each of your reptiles. The carriers should be large enough for them to move around comfortably and adequately ventilated to ensure a healthy air supply. When packing for the move, remember to include items like food and supplies for your reptiles.

Moving Day

On moving day, double-check that all of the cages and carriers are securely fastened before leaving your old home. It is important to maintain a stable temperature inside the travel containers during transport, as extreme temperatures can cause stress or illness in reptiles. Be sure to provide air, water, and food for your reptiles during the travel time, and consider taking regular breaks to check on them.

Settling In

Once you have arrived at your new home, it is essential to ensure that all of the cages and tanks are set up properly before introducing your reptiles. Give them plenty of time to adjust to their new environment before taking them out of the carrier, and be on the lookout for any signs of stress or illness. You should also monitor your reptile’s health after the move and adjust its care as needed.

Conclusion

Moving house with reptiles can be a daunting task, but with some preparation and planning, it is possible to keep your reptiles healthy and safe during the process. The benefits of owning a reptile pet are numerous, from their low-maintenance needs to their long lifespan, so it is important to make them part of your family during a move. By following these best practices you can ensure that your reptiles will thrive in their new home.

At Brycelands Removals & Storage we have been helping people move for over 50 years. We ensure that whether you are a human or otherwise that your house move is stress-free.