What to Pack in Your Exotic Pet’s Overnight Bag: Boarding Edition

When it’s time for your feathered, scaled, or furry family member to enjoy a little vacation of their own, you want to make sure they feel safe, comfortable, and cared for. At Bird Girl Pet Services, we specialize in boarding for exotic pets—and part of that involves making sure your pet has all the comforts of home.

Whether it’s your first time boarding or you’re a seasoned pro, this checklist will help you pack everything your exotic pet needs for a cozy and stress-free stay.

 Bird Boarding Checklist

What to Bring:

• Favorite perches or toys for comfort

• Enough food and treats for the full stay + extra (in case of spills or pickiness!)

• Fresh fruits/veggies that may go bad while you’re away (if part of their regular diet)

• Any medications or supplements (with instructions)

• A towel or blanket that smells like home

• Written care instructions (feeding schedule, quirks, etc.)

Optional, but helpful:

• Their favorite phrase or whistle — we love to mimic!

Rabbit & Small Mammal Boarding Checklist

What to Bring:

• Hay, pellets, and fresh greens (Oxbow Timothy/Orchard Blend, Oxbow Adult Essentials Pellets and greens are provided by us)

• Bedding (fleece, towels, or whatever they’re used to)

• Toys, tunnels, or chews for enrichment

• Treats for bonding time

• Any medications with detailed instructions

Helpful extras:

• Notes on habits, personality, and potty routine

• A favorite snuggle item or hiding hut

 Reptile Boarding Checklist

What to Bring:

• Decor for comfort

• Diet: insects, frozen feeders, or fresh greens

• Supplement powders (like calcium or D3)

Bonus trip:

Include a care sheet with your pet’s ideal temp, humidity, feeding schedule, and handling instructions.

Final Tips for a Smooth Drop-Off

• Label everything! Especially food, meds, and containers.

• Bring extras in case your return is delayed or there are spills.

• Keep your pet calm by transporting them in their usual carrier and minimizing last-minute changes.

• Reach out if you're unsure—we’re always happy to guide you!

Peace of Mind While You're Away

We know how much your exotic pets mean to you—and that’s why we go above and beyond to treat them like family. With the right prep, your pet’s stay with us can be enriching, safe, and even fun!

Want your rabbit, guinea pig, chinchilla, snake, bearded dragon, turtle or bird to be cared for by someone who truly understands what they need? Contact Bird Girl Pet Services for expert care from someone who loves your littles like you do.