Moving Small Animals
By Nicole Smith, Pet Specialist, Truck rental.com Staff
Many households have a variety of small animals as pets. When these households relocate, it is important that small animals come with them. Most small animals are easy to transport in a car or other vehicle, but there are some things that you can do to maximize their wellbeing while they are in transit. This guild will help you move these small pets easily so that they can join you in your new home. Remember, no animal should ever be transported in a moving van or truck rental.
Hamsters, Rabbits, and Ferrets
Small animals like hamsters or other creatures that live in cages are easily transported in your car. You should keep in mind, however, that a large cage may not be the best idea to move them in. For very small animals, a small animal carrier would be the best choice. For rabbits or ferrets, look into the purchase of a cat carrier for transport.
Food and Water
Most of the small animal species are used to drinking from enclosed water bottles that are hung from the cage. You can provide this same type of water while you are in transit without causing a huge mess. Make sure that the bottle is secured to the side of the cage after you have it settled in the vehicle. This will avoid splashes and spills that may occur while you are shift the cage around.
Undercover
Getting a cage cover or simply covering the transit cage with a blanket can help keep your pet from feeling too much stress. This is also a good way to keep these small pets warm and draft free. Covering the cage is an important step to take if you want to maintain healthy and happy pets.
Moving Fish
Moving your fish tank can be much more difficult than trying to move other small animals. When you decide that you are going to relocate, it is vital to the health of your fish to research the water conditions in your destination. If the water is drastically different, then you should begin mixing spring water in your tank as soon as possible. This will get your fish used to living in a spring water environment.
The Big Day
Fish can be transported in a car, but you should never try to move them in their tank. Instead, place the fish in large plastic bags and fill the empty space with air. This will keep them safe and secure while you are in transit.
Arriving Home
When you are at your destination, you should treat the fish and their tank as if you have just purchased them. This means that you need to set up the tank from scratch and allow the fish to float in their bags until a temperature is shared between the water in the tank and the water in the bags. After about 15 minutes, you can release the fish. It is best to keep the in the dark for a day and return to a regular feeding schedule the day after.
Success!
Moving small pets can be a difficult thing to do if you have never done so before. You should always remember that these small members of your family are important, so it is vital that you transport them correctly. Keeping these tips in mind will help you do just that.
