Moving house with pet cats and dogs can be stressful enough and making sure they’re around come moving day, but pet snakes and other reptiles take a little more preparation and planning that just popping the cat in a box into the car.

We’ve put together some tips and pointers to assist you while planning your move with your pet snake.

• Start planning as soon as you know you are moving house.
• Check there are no exclusions or special permits needed for your reptile if you are moving interstate.
• Make arrangements with any airlines or other public transport means. Make sure you have all the required permits and documents on you at all times. It’s a good idea to use the services of a professional pet relocation service if you are travelling long distance.
• Take your snake, lizard or other reptile for a vet check up before travelling.
• Collect any medical history if you are moving far away and needing to find a new vet clinic.
• Keep your reptile as calm and relaxed as possible by keeping daily routines the same.
• Some vets and pet stores may loan or hire for a fee a professional carrier for your pet reptile.
• Get your snake or other reptile accustomed to its travel crate or box. Make sure there is enough room for the reptile to turn around, however not too large either. Keep rocks or ornaments out of boxes as these can move around injure your pet during transit.
• Always use the correct procedure for travel on moving day for your particular species. Always remember that venomous reptiles should be packed in two boxes whereas non-venomous reptiles can be placed inside one sturdy box. Make sure containers are well ventilated with proper size holes for ventilation.
• If your reptile needs a moist environment keep moist towels in the box if possible to prevent dehydration.
• When travelling by air, clearly write the type of reptile, its required temperature, feeding times and any additional special medical needs, and that the box is marked “”Fragile” and “Live Cargo””.
• Make sure you also write your own contact details and also that of the carrier, if you are using one.
• When travelling by car, always keep your reptile in a safe spot away from other boxes that might fall.
• Always bring extra food and water (where applicable) in case there are delays on your car ride.
• When setting up the new aquarium or vivarium, check that heat temperatures are set correctly and food and water is refreshed before introducing the reptiles back into their habitat.
• Once you have arrived to your new home, settle your reptile into its new habitat as quickly as possible. This will help relieve any stress caused from travelling as fast as possible.
• Keep the cage in a quiet room away from unpacking noise, as this may also cause prolonged stress.
• Do not attempt to change the habitat for at least 3 weeks, until your reptile is acting its “”normal self””.
• Always contact your vet for advice if you feel your pet snake or other reptile is in distress or has not settled the way you would have expected.