🚗 Exotic Pet Emergency Transport Protocol

Call Vet Before Transport: 0800-XXX-XXXX

Pre-Transport Checklist

Call vet to notify of emergency arrival
Secure appropriate carrier/container
Stabilize temperature (species-specific)
Minimize handling of injured animal
Note symptoms and time of onset
Gather medical records if available
Prepare payment method

Species-Specific Transport Requirements

🦎 Reptiles

Critical Temperature: 22-28°C during transport

Use plastic container with air holes (not cardboard)
Include heat pack wrapped in towel (winter)
Place damp paper towel for humidity-loving species
Secure lid - reptiles can escape easily
Keep container level and stable
Cover container to reduce visual stress

🦜 Birds

Keep Warm: Birds lose heat rapidly when ill

Use small carrier or cardboard box with air holes
Line bottom with soft towel (not terry cloth)
Remove perches if bird is weak
Cover carrier partially to reduce stress
Keep very warm (28-30°C if possible)
Handle minimally - stress can be fatal

🐹 Small Mammals

Maintain Normal Temperature: Hypothermia Risk

Use secure carrier with familiar bedding
Include hiding place to reduce stress
Provide heat source if cold/shocked
Bring companion if bonded pair
Include water bottle if journey > 30 mins
Keep away from predator species in waiting room

🐸 Amphibians

Keep Moist: Dehydration is Rapid

Use plastic container with wet paper towels
Never use tap water - use dechlorinated only
Maintain species-appropriate temperature
Ensure adequate ventilation
Spray mist if journey exceeds 20 minutes
Handle with wet, clean gloves only

Emergency Stabilization by Condition

Condition	Immediate Action	During Transport
Bleeding	Apply direct pressure with gauze	Keep pressure on wound, minimize movement
Seizures	Remove from enclosure, pad surroundings	Dark, quiet, padded container
Difficulty Breathing	Position for easiest breathing	Fresh air, minimize handling, rush to vet
Hypothermia	Gradual warming with heat pack	Maintain warmth, monitor temperature
Fracture	Immobilize, don't attempt to set	Minimal movement, support body
Prolapse	Keep moist with saline	Continue moisture, immediate transport

⚠️ Critical Do's and Don'ts

DO:

Call ahead to ensure vet can treat your species
Drive carefully but purposefully
Keep vehicle warm and quiet
Have someone else drive if possible
Bring any medications pet is taking

DON'T:

Give food or water unless instructed
Apply human medications
Attempt complex first aid
Delay transport for non-essentials
Handle more than necessary

Vehicle Transport Tips

Secure carrier with seatbelt or wedge safely
Avoid direct sunlight through windows
Don't place near air vents
Keep radio volume low or off
No sudden stops or sharp turns
Park close to vet entrance
Call from car park if pet is critical

Post-Transport Recovery

Follow vet instructions precisely
Set up hospital tank/cage at home
Monitor temperature consistently
Keep environment quiet and stress-free
Document eating, drinking, elimination
Schedule follow-up as directed

Time is Critical in Exotic Pet Emergencies

Many exotic species hide illness until critically ill. When you notice symptoms, act quickly.

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