Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi,
I am working in a place where the people brings snakes for venom extraction here in Brazil. Almost all the snakes kept there for venom extraction are CB, but I have to deal a lot with WC ones every day. Does anyone know procedures for prevent to bring ecto and endoparasites to my pets in home? What I do now is never to touch anything related to my herps before a bath, washing my hands every time as needed and washing my clothes more frequentely. Anyone knows if this is ok or not? Any sugestions? Thanks guys

I would also consider using a strict set of work clothes that are kept and washed there, and not brought home. You can consider wearing latex gloves at work, too, but vigilant hand washing and bathing (like you mentioned) should be sufficient.

Christina
www.herptiles.net

...to ask, what species are you working with? Any chance of digital pics?

For venom extraction there are some species of Bothrops, Crotalus durissus, some Micrurus (mostly M. frontalis)and a Lachesis. But most of the incomers are non-venomous or mild venomous: Philodryas, Tropidodryas, Thamnodynastes, Boiruna, Boa, Epicrates, Corallus, Liophis, Oxyrhopus, Spilotes...
I'll post some pics later. Thanks for your help.

As promissed, here are some pics...

more pics

Thanks bushmaster, you are definately privalaged to work with such animals on a regular basis I have nothing to add to Christina's suggestions on parasite transfer; you're doing a good job.

Ian

nt