More and more pet owners are choosing to travel with their pets in the car and that means that there is a need for reptile car restraints. The markets are continually making better quality products to meet the ongoing needs of animals and their owners. But for now, there are a few things you can do to improve your pet’s safety in the car.
Snakes can be exceptionally difficult to transport if they are larger. Cars are completely foreign to them unless they are in them on a regular basis. Protecting them from what scares them is your job as the human they have come to trust, so don’t let them down. From the time they are young, it is wise to expose them to pet carriers so they will not fight being placed in one for transport. Some experts recommend placing them inside a linen bag for added comfort, reassurance and safety before placing them in a carrier. Most carriers used for transporting large snakes are plastic dog and cat carriers. You will need to check the fasteners and all doors every time you intend on using them. Use a carrier which is large enough for your pet to fit in it but small enough to fit in the car and not obstruct your vision.
Lizards are another animal which can be transported in a traditional pet carrier, provided they can’t escape. Smaller lizards are better placed in small plastic terrariums. These are available in many sizes and styles. These are usually made of a translucent light weight plastic and have a lid which prevents their escape. There are some harnesses available to fit mid to large sized lizards, which can then be hooked to seat belt restraints made for dogs and cats, but these are not recommended as your lizard may become too stressed.
Turtles and frogs can also be transported in plastic terrariums. If they are aquatic, plan to have enough water in the enclosure to allow the animal to completely submerse himself. This is a requirement. Do not leave an aquatic amphibian or reptile without sufficient water. Failure to provide water can be disastrous for your pet. Again, make the cage large enough for your pet but small enough to be convenient in relation to your vehicle.
In addition to restraint systems and carriers, you will need to remember the climate of the car may not be ideal for your pet’s needs. Cars are a very dry environment so try to raise the level of humidity for your reptile. This could be as simple as placing a damp cloth in the enclosure while traveling. Try to keep the car a bit warmer than is comfortable for humans or provide a method for raising the heat in the cage.
Keeping you pet safe is priority number one for any pet owner. Until better reptile car restraints are better able to meet the needs of animals, use those materials which are available.
