How to safely relocate with a vivarium

Author: 
Ray Victor
Last Updated:
January 6, 2025

Many pets call vivariums their home, but reptiles and amphibians use them the most commonly. It is important to highlight a few factors. Be mindful of these factors while moving with your pets:

  • Because they are fragile animals, reptiles and amphibians are prone to anxiety. You need to consult your vet about the breed and species of animal you have
  • For reptiles, particularly snakes and lizards, heat is essential. During transit, you must ensure they are warm enough to be comfortable. Use heat-generating pads or a water bottle. To prevent burning, put them outside of the animal's travel container.
  • Moisture is important, particularly if you're transporting an iguana. Bring a spray bottle with you so you may sometimes spritz your pets. You must remove your turtles and let them swim for a short while on longer moves (greater than 24 hours).
  • Avoid overheating frogs and toads since they hate high temperatures. Consider using cold parts if necessary.
  • You might need to feed your animals while travelling, depending on how long the move will take.
  • You should avoid cleaning the cage with chemicals. The majority of amphibians breathe through their skin and also to their lungs.

Here is how you can safely relocate with a vivarium. 

Step 1: preparations: 

If you fail to plan, then you should plan to fail. Make sure all your moving items are ready and written down. All of your pet's possessions need to be accounted for as well. This helps you remember what exactly it is that you have and that you need to move with. Here are some additional things that should be accounted for

  • Make sure your pet is healthy during the time of the move. Sick animals will get worse during transit. A change in environment will also stress them out more. If your pet is sick on moving day, consider postponing the move. 
  • Add packing materials like blankets and newspapers to make your pet's vivarium more comfortable. 

Step 2: moving with your pet

Make sure your pet has all of its needs fulfilled. If they need light, do not cover the vivarium. If they require moisture, keep a spray bottle with you and spray them occasionally. Unlike fish or mammals, reptiles and amphibians need your care throughout the actual move. Check in on your pet periodically, every 4-5 hours. Give them treats or spritz them with water if necessary. You may also unwrap the vivarium and let some fresh air in for your plants if the removal takes longer than 24 hours. 

Step 3: Unpack your vivarium 

When you reach your new home, you should unpack your vivarium. 

Here's what to do next: 

  1. As you unpack the tank, move your pets into the room.
  2. Place the vivarium on a level, solid surface after unwrapping it.
  3. Check for dents and chips in the vivarium. Check the inside for potentially harmful items for your dogs, such as loose pebbles or plants.
  4. Place the decorations and set up the space as it was in the previous home.
  5. Refill the pond with water.
  6. Make sure the humidity and temperature are set properly.

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