The most responsible thing to do is try and aquire antivenom for whatever snake you choose. However I understand it is not possible all the time. You can not rely on a zoo. However if you did get bit by a tropical snake and had to use a local zoo please make sure you pay them back right away so they can purchase that antivenom a.s.a.p. incase they or someone else needed it. If you choose a North American pitviper, it is a standard antivenom made of sevral N.A. crotalids. That is why a copper or pigmy is a good choice. This antivenom works well on them if even needed. Most times with them it is not. Some people think the worst with elapids. I rather be bit by an aspidelaps than even a copperhead. You would not have nearly as much tissue damage. Why people think a copperhead bite is mild is beyond me. It can take up to 17 months to recover from a copper bite. You can be maimed for life or loose digits. I think a bite from a cobra may be better than a Carolina or Georgia canebrake in some aspects. They have a very fast acting hemo and neuro toxic effect that can knock a man out in miniutes. I have heard of people making it from cobra bites hooked up to a ventilator until either the proper serum arrives or it passes through the system. A pitviper bite takes a long time to recover from and you will never be the same. Not to mention a $40,000 - $100,000 hospital bill. Stay away from timbers for a first hot. Not to mention they are probally protected where you live and that is a heavier fine than the hospital bill.

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