Choosing To Move

Fish And Birds: Tips For Relocating With Your Smaller Pets

5 May 2016 by Adam Johnson

Between the packing, hard labor and general chaos, moving can be difficult for every member of your family. This also includes the scaly or feathered members of your brood, and unfortunately, they cannot tell you when they are feeling overwhelmed. Relocating can be very stressful on your pets, which is why it is vital to get them to their new home as safely as possible. Here are a few tips to help you relocate your fish or bird:

Relocating Your Fish

Whether you enjoy the company of a fresh water fish or prefer something more exotic, getting your fish safely to their new home is critical. The act of removing your fish from the aquarium and transporting them for several miles is very stressful, and if you don't do it properly, you can put your fish's health at great risk.

The key to relocating your fish is to create an environment that is as similar to their tank as possible. To achieve this, begin by purchasing a holding tank that is large enough to accommodate your fish. If your fish are accustomed to plenty of sun, make sure the holding tank is clear or opaque. Clean out the holding tank with a wet rag and fill it with some of the water that is already in the original fish tank.

Next, carefully move the fish to the holding tank with a small net. This relocation should be performed quickly. Finally, place a few of the plants and decorations from the original aquarium into the holding tank. Recreating the fish's original environment will help lessen the stress of the move.

If you are only moving a few hours away, go ahead and siphon the remaining water from the tank and place it into covered five-gallon buckets. Carefully disassemble the tank and place all of the gravel and decorative items into a clean container.

If you are moving several hours away, it is important that you hire a moving company with the skills and materials necessary to safely disassemble and haul your aquarium and supplies. When it comes to transporting the fish in a long-distance move, make sure they are in a strong, covered holding tank. Secure the tank by placing it in a cooler. The cooler will help you maintain the fish's temperature.

Finally, it is important that you not feed the fish during the move. Chances are, the stress of the move will cause your fish to lose their appetite. The food that is left uneaten will actually change the chemical balance of the water, which is detrimental to the fish's health.

Relocating Your Bird

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 3.5 million American households own birds. If you are relocating with your bird, it is vital that they are transported with as little stress as possible.

To achieve this, begin by taking to bird to the veterinarian a few weeks before your move. If the bird has a medical condition, your vet may recommend postponing your move or may suggest you leave your bird with friends or family.

During the moving process, make sure your bird maintains a normal schedule, especially if they aren't well socialized or showing signs of stress, such as not eating or pulling out their feathers. If your bird is stressed, consider moving them to a room that is quiet and free of unfamiliar people.

If you are driving to your new home, go ahead and bring along the bird in its cage. Make sure the bird is provided plenty of food, water and distractions, especially your company. Avoid taking your bird out of the cage too often. The unfamiliar environment may spook your bird, causing them to attempt to escape.

Once you arrive at your new home, set up your bird cage immediately. If possible, set up the cage in a spot that is similar to the one your bird occupied in your old home. During this transition period, watch for any signs of stress. If your bird isn't adjusting well or seems stressed, don't hesitate to contact a veterinarian immediately.

With a little extra effort and the correct environment, it is possible to move your fish or bird to their new home with as little stress as possible. 

For more information and tips, it is best to contact a local moving company, such as Smith Dray Line, and let them know you have pets you will be moving with you.

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