Moving to a new house can be one of the most stressful events in one’s life, but it can be equally stressful for your pet too.
If you have a reptile, such as a leopard gecko, it’s important to take the right precautions to ensure a safe and stress-free move for you and your pet.
Here are seven key steps to follow when moving home with a pet reptile.
#1: Check Local Laws and Regulations
Before you move to your new home, it’s crucial to read up on the laws and regulations concerning exotic pet ownership in your new city, state, or country.
This is important in order to avoid getting yourself into a legal predicament after the move.
Some states and countries prohibit the ownership of leopard geckos or require you to obtain a permit for owning a gecko.
You can check local pet ownership laws and regulations on the local government’s Department of Fish and Wildlife website (such this one from the state of California).
#2: Consider Means of Travel
Another important step to take before moving is to consider how your reptile will be transported to your new home, especially if you plan to travel by plane.
Pet reptiles, especially leopard geckos, can fly on most commercial airlines with little possibility of danger. In fact, some reptile breeders ship their animals to pet stores using the postal service. If possible, though, try to do most of your moving by car, as flying with a pet can be a stressful experience for both you and your reptile.
If you need to move by plane, you must research the laws concerning pet importation and commercial airline regulations.
Especially if you are moving to a new country, there may be restrictions on the importation of certain reptiles.
Airlines also have their own regulations regarding traveling with pets, and may require you to carry a certificate signed by your veterinarian that certifies the reptile to be in good health. This is a great resource for making sure you complete the necessary steps before flying with your reptile.
#3: Prepare a Travel Habitat
Before moving, you should consider the type of enclosure your reptile will travel in. Especially if you are traveling by plane, airlines may have their own regulations on what type of carrying cage your pet must be in.
The travel cage should be smaller than your pet’s primary enclosure but should still have sufficient space for your reptile to move around while traveling. For leopard geckos, a small plastic tank should suffice. Remove any possible hazards in the enclosure that may shift and fall on or trap your reptile during the move.
Your reptile should be introduced to this enclosure well in advance. Introduce your leopard gecko to the new space by placing them in the cage for a couple hours a day several days before the move to avoid stressing your reptile out.
#4: Control Habitat Factors
While transporting your reptile, it’s critical to control for habitat factors such as heat and moisture.
Leopard geckos do best in warm, dry climates. It’s important, therefore, to make sure to insulate your reptile’s travel cage, or, if you are moving by car, to directly adjust the temperature in the vehicle to accommodate your pet.
This factor is especially important in the winter months, as cold temperatures can have negative effects on your reptile’s health. You can research the specific habitat conditions necessary for your pet on the Everything Reptile’s website here.
#5: Keep the Move Short
Because moving can be extremely stressful, effort should be made to make the move as short as possible. Do not leave your reptile in its travel cage for longer than necessary, and if possible, prepare your reptile’s permanent enclosure before moving so your pet can return to its cage as soon as possible.
If you are driving to your new home, avoid making unnecessary stops and keep the length of necessary stops short.
#6: Recreate the Habitat
When you arrive in your new home, try to replicate the layout of your reptile’s enclosure in your old home as closely as possible. The familiarity of the space will help your leopard gecko feel more comfortable.
Along with this, it is necessary to consider where you will place your reptile’s enclosure. Avoid locations in your new home that are loud, near windows, or in direct sunlight.
#7: Watch for Signs of Stress
Finally, it’s critical to be especially attentive to your reptile’s behavior after the move. While your leopard gecko is likely to exhibit signs of stress throughout the move, prolonged stress can be detrimental to your pet’s health.
If you notice that your leopard gecko is especially skittish, not eating, or spending most of its time in hiding well after the move, consider consulting your veterinarian.
Summary
While moving can be a stressful experience for both you and your reptile, you can avoid unnecessary stress by taking the correct precautions. By doing sufficient research prior to the move, limiting the duration of the move, and paying attention to your reptile’s behavior after the move, you can successfully relocate while prioritizing the health and well-being of your pet.
