Transport of exotic and aquatic species requires particularly careful planning in order to minimize mortality, physiological stress, dehydration, thermal instability, and environmental shock. This protocol recommends limiting transport duration, maintaining appropriate temperature and oxygenation, reducing vibration, and preventing sudden movements during travel.
Transport containers should be species-appropriate, secure, and designed to minimize visual overstimulation and physical injury. For aquatic species, water quality, oxygen availability, temperature stability, and stocking density during transport must be carefully controlled. For reptiles, birds, and small mammals, thermal stability, ventilation, darkness, and reduced handling are essential.
Adequate recovery periods should be provided after transport before initiating handling, clinical procedures, or introduction into new environments. The objective is to reduce transport-related stress and improve welfare outcomes during one of the most vulnerable phases of exotic animal management.