Are you wondering whether to take your Sugar Glider on trips? This article will cover the key considerations, including the length of the trip, travel methods, destinations and accommodations, and whether you're traveling with a single glider or a pair.
Should You Travel with Your Sugar Glider?
Length of Trip & Social Needs: The first thing to consider is how long you will be traveling for and if the needs of your pet can be met. Managing pets on short trips can sometimes be even more difficult than long ones because of the unpacking, repacking and stress of moving about. While the majority of this article concentrates on traveling with your pet, sometimes it is necessary to leave them at home and that’s ok! Sugar Gliders are social animals and it can be unhealthy for them to be left alone for long periods, especially if they do not have a cagemate. For extended trips where they may be left at home, it is important to ensure that someone trustworthy can visit daily to feed, water, and check in on them. It is not safe to leave them by themselves, even for a few days. Professional pet sitters are often ideal, especially those with experience caring for these animals.
Travel Method: Consider how you will travel—car, plane, train, etc. For flights, many airlines now do not allow pets other than cats and dogs as carry-ons. Always check with your travel provider for their latest policies, and ask specifically for policies about pets other than cats and dogs. For any method of travel, the animals should be contained at all times for their own safety and the safety of others. A bonding pouch is typically sufficient for most methods of travel but again, do your research and find out if something more specific might be required.
Destinations and Accommodations: Confirm that your destination allows pets other than cats and dogs. You can utilize websites dedicated to pet-friendly travel to find suitable accommodations and make more direct contact, preferably in writing, in regards to their policies. Consider your destinations and activities as well, and whether or not you will be able to contain the animal(s) safely should you choose activities that are not pet friendly during your stay.
Essential Travel Items
Regardless of your travel mode, pack these essentials:
- Travel cage (We are working on a redesign, these will restock soon!)
- Water bottle
- Food bowl
- Food
- Familiar toys
- Fresh fruit/veggie (or have a plan to purchase at your destination)
- Heat source and blanket
Letting Your Sugar Glider Out in a New Environment
Before letting your Sugar Gliders out to play in a new environment, ensure it is as “proofed” as possible; check for vents and hidden places where they could get lost, and always close toilet lids. If in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep them contained in unfamiliar places, especially if they are not yet bonded.
Travel Tips
Cold Climates: Always have a plan for a heat source, preferably their rock or a heat lamp. Prepare for outages by bringing a battery backup or, hand warmers can be used under supervision.
Familiar Items: Bring their unwashed heat-rock blanket and familiar toys to make them feel at home with recognizable smells in new places.
Plan B: Try to prepare for common travel mishaps, like delays and lost items. Pack a small supply of food and other necessities in a bag separate from the rest of your luggage and consider having an extra pouch in case your containment fails or gets soiled and you can’t get it cleaned up.
Conclusion
Traveling with Sugar Gliders can be enjoyable with proper planning but they can also be cared for by a trusted caregiver or professional if taking them along isn’t an option. If you have specific questions or need advice, feel free to email us. We’re here to help!