Keeping a snake as a pet is not as dangerous as you may have thought. There are a handful of breeds that are tame, gentle and easily maintained. However, like any pet, a snake will require unique care and attention, and should only be kept by those who are willing to commit the time and energy needed in order to keep a snake healthy.
Choosing a Snake
Like any other reptile, you should look for snakes that have been captive bred. Wild snakes tend to be stressed, irritable and hard to feed in captivity. For beginners, you'll want to look for the following breeds.
* Corn Snakes
** Life span of about 10 years.
** Range from about 4-5 feet.
* King Snakes
** Life span of about 20 years.
** Range up to 7 feet.
* Ball Python
** Life span upwards of 40 years.
** Range from about 4-5 feet.
What you'll need
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Snakes to avoid
Here are some snakes to avoid if you're a beginner.
* Burmese pythons
* Red-tail boa
* Tree boa/python
* Water snakes
* Any wild snakes
What to do when your snake comes home
Snakes are all unique and require a variety of living environments. Regardless of what your snake needs, it's important that the living arrangement your snake is in be completely sealed. Snakes like to climb and wander, so it's important to keep them under control.
The faint of heart may want to steer clear of snakes, as they feed on mice. Most owners feed their snakes predefense, or if the snake is not in the mood to eat. Live mice are more dangerous than beneficial, so it's in your (and the snake's!) best interest to use frozen mice.
