Shipping or Travelling with Beardie

[TheCoreyHall]

Hello, next month I will be moving cross country for my job. The total distance is over 1000 miles. I really hate driving long distance so I have been thinking about hiring a company to ship my car there since my job will ship all my household goods. If I ship my car I will be flying and since most airlines dont allow reptiles I would have to ship my bearded to my new house. My other option is to just drive my car there and take the bearded along for the ride.

My question to yall is which would be better for the dragon? I have heard the shipping is safe and humane for them but I really just cant decide which is the better option. Its also a bit of a life decision since I need to decide to spend the money to ship the car, bearded, and airline tickets vs driving there myself.

Thanks for yalls advice.

 

[CooperDragon]

If handled properly (there are companies who can help) shipping is pretty common and relatively safe. That said, I'd opt for the road trip. I like road trips though =). I've brought all of my guys on long car rides before and they either tolerate it or seem to enjoy it quite a bit. If you pack a carrier of some sort (soccer style duffel bag with towels at the bottom works for me) they can sit in that easily. If you're driving with someone else they will sit on a lap and look out the window (your mileage with this may vary). Just stop like you normally would and provide some time in the sun at a rest area etc now and then. They can sleep right in the carrier when you stop at a hotel. Maybe bring some salad items along for food or a container of worms. If your dragon is an adult, a few days without eating isn't really a big deal though. I suggest having a leash with you for outside the car and to keep him put if he wants to roam around inside the car. Don't want him getting under foot. I like the simple parachute cord style leashes that fit around their hips rather than the ones that go across their chest. Easier to get them in/out of and less restrictive.

 

[AHBD]

Shipping beardies is safe, but I think the drive would hands down be easier for both of you. And if it saves you money, that's a bonus. Your dragon can travel like Cooper mentioned and won't need anything to eat or any time in the sun. Just a medium sized tote for caring for him if you get a hotel room.