First let me say I am surprised that these creatures are even mentioned in the disaster plan as they are often overlooked! Great job!

In reguards to the suggestion of pine as bedding: No bedding with any oil should be used. Aromatic oils can make reptiles very sick! Aspen shavings or heat treated chips are the best wood substrate. The best bedding for reptiles is infact, Newspaper, paper towel or reptile carpeting. Since you are in a disaster situation I would recommend the newspaper or paper towel over the carpet as you may not have anywhere to wash it. Natural beddings are more expensive and some can even encourage the spread of bacteria. I would stick with the newspaper and add in a small hand towel in their hiding area for comfort.

Another important thing you should include in your disaster kits is a bttle of water conditioner. Reptisafe is an excellent brand.

Another thing to consider is stress. If you have to take your reptiles where there will be other animals present, have something to drape over their cage so they do not see the other creatures and become frightened. Stress is something that can very seriously effect reptiles. You also need to hide reptiles from people. Some people are absolutely terrified of reptiles (especially snakes) so they need to remain concealed.

Travel carriers for reptiles can also iclude locking rubbermaid containders with holes drilled into them. Rubbermaids do a good job at trapping in heat. Breatheable pillowcases are great for snakes and keeps them calm in a darker place. If you have large lizards, cat and dog carriers are excellent.

Just skimming through the site and thought I'd add some more info for those of you with scaley friends! If I (or you) think of anything else it will be added!

-Heather of Rainbow Serpent Reptile Rescue

Wow! Thanks so much for providing us with such relevant information regarding the reptiles. Many of us don't have as much experience with these types of pets so your information is very valuable.

Yes, thanks! This is an area many of us don't think of. I do a lot of tabling events. May I print out your post and put it on the table with our other fliers? Better yet, would you be willing to expand this just slightly into a half sheet I could turn into a handout? We will be tabling at a huge pet expo Feb 2, and I know there will be several reptile rescues there.

Hello! Sorry that I just now got around to checking this forum. It's beeen pretty busy around here.
No I definately wouldn't mind expanding it or letting you print it out. I will have to share it with other members of the reptile community and see what ideas they come up with.
I promise I'll check back soon. Thank you!