Top choices for pet snakes

Considering adopting a pet snake?  Some of the most popular pet snakes for the first time pet owner are Corn Snakes, Kingsnakes, and Ball Pythons.  Each species has specific needs and behaviors that may influence your decision in selecting the right pet for your family.  With some research and careful planning, you can ensure your pet lives a happy and healthy life.

I used to be afraid of snakes.  You know how some people cringe at the slightest mention of the word snake?   That used to be me.  

All of that changed during my internship for school.  I was lucky enough to intern at the Columbus Zoo in Ohio as a part of my education for veterinary technology.  On the first day, the zoo veterinarian asked me if there were any species of animal I was afraid of. When I answered that I wasn’t fond of snakes, he just chuckled and said “well you are going to have to get over that because we treat a lot of snakes here.”  

He wasn’t kidding!  After weeks of being exposed to a variety of snake species on a regular basis, my perspective changed.  So much so, that when the internship came to an end, I went out and bought myself a corn snake.  

Corn Snakes are one of my top three species for first time snake owners, along with Kingsnakes and Ball Pythons.

I picked these three colorful snakes because of their gentle personalities, manageable size, and they are all fairly easy to care for.  Colorful doesn’t even begin to describe the variety of patterns and color combinations these species come in. My son’s Ball Python pictured here, is a piebald version that have normal markings with color, as well as large unpigmented white sections.

I’m thinking about adopting a snake, what do I need to know?

Some basic questions you should think about are:

• Does this pet have specific temperature and humidity requirements?
• What items are necessary to create their habitat?
• How big will this pet get?
• What nutritional needs does this species require?
• What size and type of terrarium will I need to purchase?
• How long will my snake live?

The answers to these questions will help you determine which type of snake best fits your lifestyle.  

I’ve compiled some of this information for you here.

As you will see, these types of snake have a lot in common.  Each one of these is an excellent choice for a first time snake owner, and your final decision may just come down to personal preference.

Once my new snake is all set, is there anything else I should know?

• Shedding –  As your snake grows, it will need to grow new skin for its larger body and will shed old skin.  Maintaining the proper humidity for your snake’s habitat ensures that this shedding process goes smoothly.
• Cleaning – Their cages will need cleaned weekly, and water should be daily.  It is important to provide clean non-chlorinated water in a shallow bowl, which also adds humidity to their terrarium.
• Secure fitting lid – These three species of snake are all escape artists.  Without a secure fitting lid they can escape their enclosure in Houdini like fashion.  Let’s just say my corn snake played a few tricks on us over the years.  
• Handling – While these snakes have docile, gentle personalities, it doesn’t necessarily mean they love being handled.  Snakes like their solitude. When you hold your snake, be sure to use both hands and support their midsection.   Avoid handling your snake just before and for 48 hours after feeding, or when they are about to shed.
• Healthcare – Snakes can suffer from various diseases, infections, and parasites.  If you suspect your snake isn’t feeling well, a trip to the veterinarian may be necessary.   The best way to know if your snake needs to see a veterinarian is to take note of any deviation from their normal behavior and eating habits.

If you are looking for a herp-knowledgeable veterinarian in your area, a good place to start is by checking the list of members on the Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarian (ARAV) web site at www.arav.org. 

With some research and preparation, owning a snake can be a rewarding experience.  All pet snakes require care and attention to ensure their long term health and happiness.  Once their specific needs are met, these pets can make great companions.

If you own a snake, what species do you recommend for new pet owners?  We love hearing your comments and questions.