What to do with your reptile on holiday

Whether you’re the proud parent of a curious chameleon or a tenacious turtle, leaving your reptilian roomie behind while you jet off on vacation can feel like a difficult task. But don’t worry – we’ve got five fabulous pet care options to make sure your reptiles are in good hands while you’re away. Here’s what to do with your reptile on holiday…

What to do with your reptile on holiday

1. Get an in-home pet sitter 

Having a reptile sitter who comes and stays in your home means your scaly sidekick gets all the care they need while you’re away. It’s the next best thing to being there yourself, and perfect for pets that need regular attention. 

Benefits:

• Your precious pets enjoy 24/7 care and attention every single day you’re away. 
• They get to stay in their happy place – right at home.
• Your sitter can send you daily updates to keep you worry-free. 
• The sitter can also handle small household tasks like watering plants and collecting mail.
• Having a sitter stay in your home adds an extra layer of security while you’re away.
• Joining a pet sitting platform like TrustedHousesitters is a budget-friendly pet care solution – pay once, and you’ll have access to thousands of loving pet sitters for a whole year.

2. Opt for a drop-in pet sitter 

If an in-home reptile sitter isn’t an option for you, then a reliable drop-in sitter is the perfect alternative! These sitters usually charge per visit, so be sure to schedule enough visits to keep your reptile happy and well-cared for. 

Benefits:

• Flexible scheduling means sitters can visit as often as you need. 
• Your scaly family member gets to stay in their own habitat, which reduces stress.
• Each visit can be tailored to your reptile’s specific needs, from feeding to habitat maintenance. 

3. Use reptile boarding services

Many pet stores and specialized reptile facilities offer boarding services, where pets are cared for by experts who understand their unique needs.

Benefits:

• Professional care from experienced staff.
• This option often includes a health check and regular updates.
• It gives your reptile the chance to socialize with other similar species (if they're into that!).

4. Ask a trusted friend or family member

If you have a friend or family member who’s comfortable with reptiles, this can be a fantastic and cost-effective option. Make sure they’re well-versed in your reptile’s care routine before diving straight in though – it’s not always straightforward. 

Benefits:

• Your pet gets to stay in a familiar environment around friendly faces.
• Your friend or family member might be happy to help, often at no cost.
• Regular updates are easy to arrange.

5. Explore veterinary clinic options

Some veterinary clinics offer boarding services for exotic pets, which is particularly useful if your reptile has special health needs that require expert attention.

Benefits:

• Access to professional veterinary care.
• Peace of mind if your reptile has health issues.
• Can be combined with a regular check-up.

Tips for a smooth transition

• Make arrangements early: Work out who’s going to care for your pets as soon as you book your trip to ensure you’ve got plenty of options and time to prepare.
• Choose someone with experience: Whether you’re deciding between an in-home pet sitter or a family friend, opt for someone with experience caring for reptiles like yours. 
• Create a care guide: Write out detailed instructions for feeding, cleaning, and any special care requirements, and don’t forget to include contact information for you and your vet. 
• Prepare supplies: You might wish to prep and portion out meals for your scaly sidekick to make feeding them more straightforward.
• Trial run: If possible, do a short trial run with your chosen option before your actual trip. 
• Stay connected: Arrange regular updates, whether through messages, photos, or video calls, to keep your mind at ease.

Taking a holiday should be a time to relax and recharge. By planning ahead and choosing the right care option for your reptilian roomie, you can enjoy your trip knowing your precious pet is in good hands.