When it comes to taking your bearded dragon on a journey, whether it’s a trip to the vet or an adventurous cross-country trek, careful planning is essential to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. Here are some important factors to consider:
Distance and Weather Conditions
Before embarking on your travels, think about the distance you will be covering and the weather conditions you may encounter along the way. These factors will help you determine the necessary preparations for a smooth journey.
Traveling with Your Bearded Dragon by Car
Can a Bearded Dragon Ride in a Car?
Yes, they can, as long as you plan ahead. Whether it’s a short or long car ride, keep these two things in mind:
1. No Feeding
To avoid any digestion issues, refrain from feeding your bearded dragon two days prior to your departure. This precaution is crucial because fluctuating temperatures in the car and the stress of travel can make it difficult for your pet to properly digest its food.
2. Prepare a Secure and Comfortable Traveling Container
For shorter trips, a carrier will suffice. When choosing a carrier, ensure that it is spacious enough for your bearded dragon to move around comfortably. Additionally, it should be padded, well-ventilated, insulated, and secure. A 20-gallon container can be used for short-distance travel.
For longer journeys, a full-size enclosure is recommended. It should meet the same criteria as the carrier but with some additional requirements:
Temperature
Maintaining the correct temperature is vital. Consider using a mercury vapor bulb to provide both heat and UV light. Hand warmers or warm, folded microfiber towels placed in plastic bags can also help regulate temperature. Monitoring your bearded dragon’s well-being and the enclosure’s temperature throughout the trip is crucial.
Bedding for the Enclosure
To minimize mess, use newspaper or paper towels as bedding. Carry extra supplies to replace soiled ones during the journey.
Secure the Enclosure
When loading the enclosure into your car, make sure it is secured to prevent movement during sudden stops or turns.
Food
For long journeys, bring freeze-dried insects as a convenient alternative to live feeders. Greens can also be provided for a balanced diet.
Water
While bearded dragons primarily derive moisture from their food, it is still important to provide a shallow water dish for them to drink from during the journey.
Cleaning Supplies
Gather any necessary cleaning supplies you might need for the trip.
Furniture
Offer some furniture pieces, such as a log, within the enclosure for your pet to hide in. Ensure that the furniture is stable and won’t topple during the drive.
Harness
Consider bringing a harness to exercise your bearded dragon during stops or at your destination. This will allow you to keep your pet under control while it explores.
Contact Information
Have your veterinarian’s phone number on hand in case of emergencies.
How to Bring a Bearded Dragon on a Plane
Traveling by plane requires similar preparations as for a long car journey, with a few additional considerations:
Is Your Bearded Dragon a Carry-On?
Check with the airline to see if they allow live animals on board. If they do, find out if your bearded dragon can be treated as a carry-on. It’s crucial to avoid placing your lizard in the cargo hold, as it may not be pressurized or heated adequately.
Know the Laws of Other States and Countries
If your travel plans involve crossing borders, ensure that you are aware of any laws or regulations concerning bearded dragons in those areas. Non-compliance could lead to complications for you and your pet.
Label the Carrier
To minimize the risk of losing your pet during transit, label your bearded dragon’s crate with your contact information, including your phone number, email address, or your veterinarian’s contact details (with their permission).
How Long Can a Bearded Dragon Be Out of Its Tank?
It’s important to limit the time your bearded dragon spends outside of its regular enclosure to minimize stress. However, when your pet is out of its tank, make sure to fulfill all of its needs. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:
- Carrier or enclosure
- Proper lighting and heating setup
- Spare bulbs
- Cleaning supplies
- Paper towels or newspaper for bedding
- Thermometer
- Additional heating or insulation aids, such as hand warmers and towels
- Food
- Water dish
- Harness
For air travel, remember to:
- Check the airline’s pet policy
- Familiarize yourself with the laws of other countries or states you’ll be visiting
We hope you found this article helpful in preparing for your bearded dragon’s travels. Remember to prioritize their well-being by considering temperature, lighting, and other essential care requirements. For more information on bearded dragon care, visit DHPL Travels.
