Responsibilities of Owning an Exotic Snake

By, Crystal S. Kauffman, Contributing Writer

The Burmese Python and other exotic snakes have been getting bad press coverage lately in South Florida. I have decided to investigate the actual meaning of being a responsible owner of one of these exotic snakes. I found many interesting websites, which can educate a new snake owner. These snakes need special types of housing and care, so the new owner must be prepared to accommodate their growing needs.
                                                         
Knowledge is Power

Before buying the snake, a person needs to consider the expenses associated with buying these exotic animals. The animal will require veterinarian care, special housing, live animals, and so much more as they grow. Take time to study and know what type of snake that you are interested in owning. Many new snake owners buy the snake as a baby and don't realize how big they can become. In the right conditions and housing, these exotic snakes can grow to an enormous size and length.
 
Veterinarian Care

Every year or so, the snake will need a check-up or other medical care, but emergencies will pop up from time to time as well. Take time, before purchasing a snake and find a vet that is able to treat reptiles like snake and lizards. Not every veterinarian will offer this type of care, but the potential snake owner should look around for a local vet that offers this specialized care. Ask other reptile owners and pet shop personnel about the veterinarian that tends to their reptiles.
 
Special Housing

The snake will need an escape proof wooden cage that will allow the snake to grow for several years before having to be replaced. Most people build their own reptile enclosure, but they must be sure to consult a reptile cage building website before attempting to build one. An owner should never use a standard fish aquarium for housing, because the snake can escape once it grows bigger and stronger. The snake should have clean housing as well, in order to keep the snake from getting sick.

Live Animals

Snakes will eat small animals several times a week, but the amount will be based on their size and weight. They eat live rabbit and rats, which can cost the owner a lot of money after they begin to grow larger. These animals can be purchased at a local pet shop, but some snake owner breed their own small animals to cut the cost down. However, if an owner is squeamish they may not be able to handle feeding the snake live animals.

Conclusion

Exotic snakes require special care, as well as a responsible owner who can give them the proper care that they need. The potential snake owner should do his or her homework and interact with other snake owners. The snake will need the new owner to provide proper medical care, escape-proof housing, and live animals for the snake to stay healthy. However, this type of care can get expensive, so before making the purchase the potential snake owner should weigh the cost.

References:

Personal Knowledge & Experience