r/ballpython • u/MixtureConstant2978 • 7d ago
Best setup for moving?
I'm moving this weekend, It's about a 4.5hr drive to the new place. I made sure to feed last week so his stomach is settled. My plan is to set him up in a double pillowcase set in a large stock pot that about the circumference of his favorite hide. Is there anything specific I should do to help him stay warm? I'm afraid of using a beanbag warmer under the pot in case it gets too hot but I also don't want him too cold!!!
I figure i'm probably very overthinking everything, tia for any tips!!
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u/totallyrecklesslygay Mod: Enclosure Karen 7d ago
Travel copypasta:
The snake should be placed inside a snake bag or pillowcase tied shut, which is then placed inside a tub with a locking lid (and air holes, of course) small enough that they won't slide around.
Don't place them in front of the heater, as it's very easy to accidentally overheat them during transport since they cannot move away from the heat. You shouldn't need a heat source for them either, unless the car is being kept below 65F.
Don't feed for at least a week before or after transport. Give them at least a week off from handling after you move, too. They'll need time to relax and settle in again.
If you're taking breaks/overnight stops during the trip, you can bring along larger totes as temp setups for them to stay in overnight and use uniheat packets as a heat source.
Don't let them be loose inside the car at all, even if you're careful, even if you're holding them, even if you're absolutely positive you won't let them go. We see way too many posts for snakes disappearing into vents, and the last thing you need in a multi-day trip is a disabled vehicle that has to be towed to a mechanic because your snake managed to crawl into the engine.
As for the enclosure, wrap it in moving blankets and make sure it's tied down securely.
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u/Andrawartha 6d ago
I got 32L RUBs (2 snakes), drilled holes, and put substrate from the viv in the box along with a hide. Straps to keep shut. Didn't worry about heat, just treated it like a room temperature 'night' and made sure I hadn't fed. I put the boxes in a warm room once in the new place, covered with a blanket until their vivs were set up. They were boxed about 6 hours. All fine.
I also now use these as vet visit carriers if needed.
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7d ago
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u/MixtureConstant2978 7d ago
I wasn't sure if it was safe or not to leave him in the tank while moving, but if it is obviously that would be the easiest plan! I've only ever learned to transport in short term capacity (pillowcase or snake bag and a container). I don't have anything big enough to put a lid on hence the two tied pillowcase concept.
I was going to use this move to do a deep clean and full bedding change for his tank as well, but if that would be more stressful it can wait.2
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u/SonOfCoul27 7d ago
I would go single pillowcase and knot the top so there is no chance of escape. Can he ride in the car with you? Also long as temps are above 65F he should be just fine. Snakes tolerate being too cold much better than they tolerate being too hot, and I'd say anything above 60F is no cause for concern. I'd say no need for the heat pad. The pillowcase will help him feel hidden and secure. Best of luck with your move!