Is Having a Snake Pet Right for You?

Cincinnati snake

Snakes can be a fantastic companion, but keeping one as a pet should never be taken lightly. As opposed to what most of us believe, snakes are not slimy and cold, and most species are not dangerous. Some species will be easy to manage and keep in small containers since their lifestyle does not require them to move frequently. They are docile and quiet creatures; you don’t have to take them for a walk or clean and sanitize large excrements. However, they may have special diet needs that can increase your expenses. Besides, snakes are wild creatures that need to remain in their natural environment.

Should I Buy a Pet Snake?
There are different reasons why we will discourage you from buying a pet snake. First, you will have to prove to the authority that your snakes have not been forcefully taken away from their natural habitat. Unfortunately, most of these reptiles were removed from their natural habitat. Snakes, just like any wild animal, have special needs. They are pretty sensitive to the touch, especially when they are shedding their skin. Improper handling of these animals may result in injury and illness. Finally, studies show that reptiles that ended up as human pets have a high mortality rate. Around 75% of the snakes will die within a year due to stress and other problems related to captivity.

How Do You Prepare Yourself for Your Pet Snake?
Reading and being aware of the requirements related to owning a pet snake is the first thing you need to do. It will also lead to a more successful relationship between you and your pet snake. After this, you need to determine the type of snake that you want to own. You also need to know a lot of things about the snake before you even bring this home. Some of the most common types of snakes that people take as pets include corn snakes, garter snakes, gopher snakes, king snakes, and ball pythons. If this is your first time to have a pet snake, start with the smaller snakes such as garter snakes. Look for a snake that has a gentle demeanor and will not mind being handled.

What is the Proper Way to Handle Pet Snakes?
Be sure that you will buy your pet snakes from a trusted and reputable breeder. It ensures you that the snakes have been hand-reared and can easily be tamed. Understand that it will take some time before your snake gets used to its new surroundings. Until then, avoid touching it since it is pretty sensitive. Once it becomes more familiar with its environment, you can hold the snake for a couple of minutes each day to keep it calm every time you pick it up.

Pet snakes are different from your average pets; they have a special diet, housing, and temperature needs. There is also a rigorous requirement to own a pet snake legally. Having a pet snake is a responsibility that the owner should never take lightly. Go back to the home page: Snakes of Cincinnati