We always go on vacation but like a cat or dog, we can’t take hermit crab with us on travel. That’s why we need a pet sitter but some people can’t afford a pet sitter for a long time or fear that they will do anything wrong with your hermit crab. You may not find a relative or friend to take care of your hermit crab while on vacation.
After reading this article, you’ll be able to make the preparations for your hermit crab and leave them in your room thoughtlessly. Things that you can do with hermit crab while on vacation.
First, you need to figure out how long will you be on vacation. If it is for three days to a week, there is not much to consider. Just give your hermit crabs extra food bowls with dry food and give them extra water analyzing how much water they need per day. If you are keeping a pet sitter, give him the hermit crab care instructions you would normally do. You can use sticky notes for what to do and food in the zip-lock bags giving the date.
Mainly, we have to ensure the regulation and supply for five things – food, water, temperature, humidity, and light. Other things like shells, substrate, etc you will ensure depending on your hermit crab’s health and their need.
Arranging food for the vacation
Observe your hermit crab behavior for 1 week before vacation, and see how much they eat each day. You need to place 2-3 extra food bowls because one may get dirty with poop and pee or the bowl gets flipped.
You should not give any fresh food such as vegetables and fruits, especially strawberries, because it will not only get rotten and make the bowl uneatable, but it will cause other foods to rot. So dry and commercial foods are safe options. Some recommended brands are Snout and Shell, Fluker’s, and Zoo Med.
Only this, doesn’t solve the problem of what if the food runs out or what if the crabs don’t have regulations on food. For this, an automatic feeder with a timer is recommended. Setting this in the tank will allow food in a specific amount at a specific time.
Water solvation
Not much needs to change in the water. Give them more water than usual depending on how long they will need the water. A plastic bowl is recommended for the water because it won’t absorb the water. Creating a saltwater pool would be recommended as deep as the crab can submerge fully without drowning. Two water bowls for fresh water and saltwater just increase in amount. Give more water bowls you have 5-6 hermit crabs in the enclosure.
You can use products like automatic water dispensers. It will also come in handy always and you don’t have to think much about water.
Temperature control
If the temperature fluctuates, for safety, use a thermostat. It will ensure the temperature stays the same (75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit) when the temperature changes connecting with the heating mat. It is also known as the temperature controller. You can find this product by searching “temperature controller for a terrarium.”
If you live in a colder zone consider wrapping the enclosure with a blanket before going for a vacation. Now you are safe with the temperature.
Humidity
Maintaining humidity (70 to 80 percent) is crucial for hermit crabs, drying the enclosure can kill the hermit crab.
Obviously, you can’t mist the tank to keep high humidity. So, instead, you can use an automatic fogger/mister.
Light
Hermit crabs do not benefit from light. So if it is a matter of 7-10 days you can turn off your light and go. Always turning it on is not recommended as they need day night cycle. If your crab gets natural daylight not a direct hit from the sun then there is no need to worry.
If you do not have someone to turn on and off the light, use a timer to get rid of the problem and set the timer for 12 hours a day. This way you don’t have to think about light and it will always come in handy.
Automation may look expensive but it is worth the money. It will reduce the pressure of care on your head and your hobby will be a lot easier and manageable. Now get rid of thinking about care for your hermit crab and go on a vacation.
Suggestions for pet sitters
- Do not smoke in the room
- Do not unplug anything
- Clean the bowl and change the water regularly
- Throw away leftover food and give new food following the owner’s instruction.
- If you see signs of molting take steps, if you don’t know the care about this particular situation, inform the owner.
- First, follow the notes of the owner then take steps that you think need to be done.
#FAQS
Hermit crab travel tank – cage
In case you want to take hermit crabs with you. You can find a plastic travel carrier tank/cage for hermit crabs. Pretty easy to carry, and you can find it in shops like eBay and Amazon.
Hermit crab vacation feeder
For feeding hermit crabs on vacation, an automatic feeder with a timer can be used, there are variations in the product, so use whichever you find the best. You can find the product by searching “automatic feeder with timer” on Amazon.
How long can a hermit crab survive without food or water?
Hermit crabs can survive without food and water without staving for 7 to 10 days, it can go up to a month. They are known to live without eating for a long time in the molting period. But it is not a good idea to let them starve. Surely you don’t want to see your hermit dead after returning home.
Can I take hermit crab on a plane?
Hermit crabs are easily portable and they will not get harmed by the plane environment. Most of the airlines allow hermit crabs to travel with. But research about the specific airline whether they allow it or not.
