New baby on the way and want a good start

[ridgebax1]

I am going to be getting a Nosy Be male baby this Friday. I want to know the best way to acclimate him to his new home. Of course he will have proper light and heat with access to water from a dripper. He will be in my living room and out of sight of the other chameleon's cage. When and how much should I try to handle him? Should I offer food right away or wait until the following day? I see so many posts about the stress these animals experience during shipping and acclimating to a new environment and I want that to be as little as possible.

 

[MelissaB]

I would try feeding him when you get him. Every cham is different. Both my guys ate 5 minutes (or less) out of the deli cup. I would think the most important thing would be water, and making sure they get rehydrated. Can't wait to see pics of your new baby. Congratulations!

 

[Psychobunny]

I believe it depends on several things. If the cham is used to being handled, and had a relativly smooth (and short) trip in his shipping box, and if he isnt scared to death when you open the box, they may start eating right away.

Like Melissa said, water is most important.

Make sure your cham is shipped FedEx next day by 10:30am delivery

 

[carol5208]

Yes, feed him right away, but as you know he might not eat for a few days. Some do and some do not. I would not handle him for a few weeks unless he wants to be handled, meaning when you open the cage door he comes to you. Give him time to get used to you and his new set up.

 

[Psychobunny]

........and dont worry too much about the stress.
They just go to sleep in the box.
The FedEx ppl are very gentle with them if the box is clearly marked, so they know what it is.

If it were that stressful, no decent breeder would ship them in the first place

PS: what happened to your veiled cham?

 

[ridgebax1]

He is coming by next day delivery by 10:30 AM; I can't wait. Will post pictures and am working on a name!

 

[Psychobunny]

The waiting will probably be more stressful for you then shipping will be for your cham, unless you can sleep until 10:30am Friday