Dean, we struggle with this very issue at my facility. I have found that a gradual freezing process is the best way to go for smaller sized snakes (not large constrictors like burms, etc.). We will first place a snake that needs to be put down, in a snake bag in a plastic storage container in a refrigerator for a couple of days. This brings about a gradual process of "shutting down". Once sufficiently cooled, the snake/bag/container is then placed in a freezer and the snake is typically in a restful coil at the time of death. Meds are certainly a viable and perhaps good option and we have gone that route as well but it must be done by a vet who has a lot of experience with herps.



Rob Carmichael, Curator

The Wildlife Discovery Center

Lake Forest, IL





>>This interesting topic came up on another forum and I thought I'd bring it up here....

>>

>>see: http://www.b2g2.com/boards/board.cgi?action=read&id=1125439062&user=kyherpsoc

>>

>>What do you think?

>>Is freezing painful?

>>

>>I have often wondered if over the counter barbituates (given in human dosages)...like sleep-aid, etc. would be more humane in just causing sleep and the heart to stop.

>>

>>Thoughts?
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Rob Carmichael, Curator

The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm

Lake Forest, IL

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