Snakes

Snake Care at Advanced Animal Care ER

Expert and Compassionate Care for Your Pet Snake 

At Advanced Animal Care ER, we understand that snakes are fascinating, low-maintenance, and unique pets that require specialized care. Whether you’re a first-time snake owner or an experienced enthusiast, we are here to provide expert care for your snake, from routine wellness exams to emergency treatments. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your snake enjoys a long and healthy life. 

What to Expect During Your Snake's Visit:

When you bring your snake to Advanced Animal Care ER, you can expect top-tier care and attention. Here’s what to expect during an initial visit:

• Comprehensive Physical Exam: Our veterinarian will conduct a full examination of your snake, including checking for parasites, injuries, or signs of illness.

• Diet and Habitat Review: We’ll discuss your snake’s diet, habitat, and any behavioral changes to ensure they are living in the right conditions.

• Diagnostic Testing: If necessary, we may recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, fecal exams, or x-rays to diagnose any underlying issues.

• Personalized Care Plan: Based on the exam and diagnostic results, we will develop a personalized care plan that may include dietary changes, habitat adjustments, or treatments for health concerns.

Common Snake Health Concerns We Treat:

Snakes are generally hardy pets but can face specific health issues that require attention. Some of the most common concerns we treat include: 

• Snake Mites and Parasites: External and internal parasites that cause discomfort and health problems.

• Snake Fungal Disease: A fungal infection that often appears as lesions on the skin and requires prompt treatment.

• Respiratory Infections: Often caused by improper humidity or temperature, these can lead to coughing and labored breathing.

• Inclusion Body Disease (IBD): A viral infection that primarily affects boas and pythons, leading to neurological symptoms.

• Prolapse and Egg Binding: Conditions related to the reproductive system that can be life-threatening if untreated.

• Blister Disease: A bacterial infection caused by high humidity or unsanitary living conditions.

Prompt care can prevent complications and help your snake stay healthy.

Snake Care FAQs:

How do I transport my pet snake to the vet?
Transport your snake in a secure, escape-proof carrier. Ensure the carrier has adequate ventilation and is large enough to allow your snake to move comfortably. Avoid using glass tanks for transport as they can overheat and increase stress.

What are the different kinds of snakes—how many species of snakes are there?
There are over 3,000 species of snakes in the world. These species are divided into venomous and non-venomous types. Some of the most common species in the pet trade include ball pythons, corn snakes, and boa constrictors.

Are all snakes venomous?
No, only a small percentage of snake species are venomous. Most pet snakes, such as ball pythons and corn snakes, are non-venomous.

What are the non-venomous pet snakes?
Some common non-venomous pet snakes include:

• Ball pythons

• Corn snakes

• King snakes

• Milk snakes

• Garter snakes

Are pet snakes dangerous?
No, most pet snakes are not dangerous. Non-venomous snakes, such as ball pythons and corn snakes, are generally gentle and easy to handle.

Are snakes smart?
Yes, snakes are intelligent creatures. They can learn to recognize their owners, follow simple patterns, and even find their way around their environment with ease.

What are the most common pet snakes?
Some of the most popular pet snakes include:

• Ball pythons

• Corn snakes

• Garter snakes

• Boa constrictors

Do snakes make good pets, and if so, what types of snakes make the best pets?
Snakes can make great pets if cared for properly. Ball pythons and corn snakes are excellent pets for beginners due to their docile nature and manageable size.

What are the best pet snakes for beginners? How about the best snakes for kids?
The ball python and corn snake are the best options for beginners. They are docile, easy to handle, and grow to manageable sizes.

What small pet snakes might you recommend, and is there such a thing as snakes that stay small?
Small pet snakes that stay small include the African house snake and the Garter snake. These species typically grow to lengths of 2-3 feet, making them manageable pets.

What goes into having large pet snakes?
Large snakes, such as boa constrictors and reticulated pythons, require large enclosures, adequate heating, and specialized diets. They also need a lot of attention and should be handled carefully, especially as they grow.

What do snakes eat?
Most pet snakes eat pre-killed rodents like mice or rats. The size of the prey should be appropriate for the size of the snake. Some species, such as garter snakes, may also eat small amphibians or fish.

What do I do if my snake isn’t eating?
If your snake refuses to eat, it may be due to stress, environmental factors, or health issues. Make sure the habitat temperature and humidity are optimal. If the issue persists for more than a couple of weeks, consult a veterinarian.

How do I create a snake habitat, and what does a snake need in its cage?
A proper snake habitat includes:

• A secure enclosure (e.g., glass tank or plastic terrarium)

• Bedding (e.g., aspen shavings or paper towels)

• A heat source (e.g., heat lamp or under-tank heater)

• A water bowl for hydration

• Hiding spots to help your snake feel secure

Do snakes need a heat lamp?
Yes, snakes are cold-blooded and need a heat source to regulate their body temperature. A heat lamp or under-tank heater helps maintain an appropriate temperature gradient in their enclosure.

How do snakes mate?
Snakes mate by internal fertilization. The male snake will court the female, and they will mate by aligning their bodies. Female snakes usually lay eggs, though some species give live birth.

How big are snake eggs? Are snake eggs soft?
Snake eggs are usually 2-4 cm in diameter, depending on the species. They are soft and leathery, not hard like bird eggs.

Where do snakes lay eggs?
Most snakes lay their eggs in secure, hidden spots in the wild. In captivity, it’s important to provide a safe nesting area for egg-laying species.

Are snakes reptiles or amphibians?
Snakes are reptiles, not amphibians. They are cold-blooded animals with scales, and they breathe air.

Do snakes have bones?
Yes, snakes have a skeleton with many vertebrae (often over 200), which gives them flexibility and the ability to slither.

How do snakes move?
Snakes move by contracting their muscles in waves along their body, a process called lateral undulation. This allows them to push against surfaces and move in a smooth, sinuous motion.

Are snakes cold-blooded? How long do snakes live?
Yes, snakes are cold-blooded and rely on external temperatures to regulate their body heat. Snakes can live anywhere from 5 to 30 years, depending on the species.

Do snakes have ears - can they hear?
Snakes do not have external ears, but they can sense vibrations through the ground. They can hear low-frequency sounds, but their hearing is not as developed as in mammals.

How do snakes see?
Snakes have poor vision compared to humans, but they can detect movement and see shapes. They rely more on their sense of smell (via their tongue) and heat sensing.

Do snakes have teeth?
Yes, snakes have sharp teeth that help them grip and swallow prey. Venomous snakes have specialized fangs to inject venom into their prey.

How do snakes smell?
Snakes use their forked tongues to capture chemical particles in the air, which they analyze using a special organ called the Jacobsen’s organ.

Why do snakes have forked tongues?
The forked tongue allows snakes to sense direction by picking up different chemical cues from both sides of their environment.

Do snakes have hearts, lungs, and scales?
Yes, snakes have a heart (usually with three chambers), lungs (some species have only one), and scales that protect their skin and aid in movement.

Why do snakes shed?
Snakes shed their skin as they grow. This process is called ecdysis, and it allows the snake to remove old skin and replace it with a new, larger layer.

Why do I need to feed my snake in a separate cage?
Feeding your snake in a separate cage prevents them from associating their regular enclosure with food, which can reduce aggression and prevent them from swallowing bedding or other unwanted materials.

What do I do if my snake bites me?
If bitten, clean the wound with soap and water, and apply antiseptic. While most snake bites are not venomous, it’s always best to seek medical attention, especially if the snake is venomous.

Can snakes make me or my other pets sick, and can I get my snake sick?
Yes, snakes can carry diseases like salmonella, which can be transmitted to humans. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your snake and their habitat.

What are the zoonotic diseases that snakes carry?
Snakes can carry salmonella, which can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with the snake or its habitat.

What diseases do snakes carry, what are their symptoms, and what are their treatments?
Common snake diseases include snake fungal disease, snake mites, and respiratory infections. Symptoms may include lesions, excessive shedding, lethargy, or labored breathing. Treatment depends on the specific disease.

How soon should I bring my pet in to see a veterinarian if I suspect something is wrong with my snake?
If your snake shows signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior, bring them in as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to complications.

Signs Your Snake Needs Immediate Care:

If your snake exhibits any of the following symptoms, it may need urgent care:

• Labored breathing

• Lethargy or refusal to eat

• Excessive shedding or skin issues

• Discharge from the mouth or nose

• Sudden weight loss

If you notice any of these signs, contact us immediately for urgent care.

How to Schedule an Appointment:

To schedule an appointment for your snake, call Advanced Animal Care Emergency at 859-625-5678. Our team is here to provide the best care for your snake companion.