Snakes as Pets 
 

Types of Snakes Suitable as Pets - How to choose the Snake that Suits You.

Today it is becoming more common for people to keep snakes as pets. Before you choose to do that, it is important that you ask yourself a few questions. For example, why do you want a snake? Some people desire to own a snake for wrong reasons. As a result, they don't educate themselves on the way to properly care for a snake. Some people forget that a snake is a living creature and has certain needs that must be met. Also, remember that a snake is a wild creature and has to be treated as such..

Obviously, your snake will need an enclosure to keep them safe and to keep others around them safe. The size and breed of your snake will determine how big the enclosure should be. One recommendation is to provide one half square foot of enclosure for each foot of snake. That holds true if the snake is under 6 feet. If it is over 6 feet, then you should provide three fourths square feet of space. Snakes spend much time hiding and basking and have a desire to feel secure in their surroundings. If you use an aquarium as an enclosure, you can use a peg board at the top of the aquarium to give the snake ventilation. Do not use mesh because the snake can rub up against it and damage its body. Not much is needed in the cage or aquarium. At the bottom, you can line it with reptile carpet or aspen shavings. It is also a good idea to provide a place for the snake to hide, maybe something like a cave made out of rocks. Also, plants can be added and a small dish of water. Because snakes are cold blooded, it is important to keep the temperature during the day between 80 - 85 degrees. The temperature at night should be between 65 - 75. If a snake is residing in an area where the temperature is just a few degrees below the minimum, many times it will stop eating.