Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Anyone doing this or done this in the past?
Taking some snakes to a kids party and entertaining
and educating them? (for money of course)

I'm giving consideration to starting this next year
and any helpful advise would be GREAT!!!! Things
like:

1. good species to use
2. good tips for the "show" part
3. horror stories would be amusing
4. general take on doing it?

Thanks in advance!

g'day

i've been thinking about doing that. I reckon maybe for the really scared, a spotted python, because they're very docile, and can't really hurt enyway. For the more brave i'd go a common boa or something. And bring a retic or a burm for show.

Do you know anything about licencing or regulations or whatever for doing this?

jack
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1.0 Spotted pythons, 0.0.1 Stimsons python, 1.0 Diamond python (yes, I am from Australia)

Laws will vary from place to place as they will primarily fall under local jurisdictions. If you are going to advertise and charge money you will need a business license or permit. You will also need to claim income at tax time. You may also be able to claim deductions for expenses, including the cost of animal maintenance. I would check with a tax specialist on this. It is a huge red flag for the IRS if expenses exceed income, especially after the first year, so I am not sure the best way to balance income with expenses. There are different paths to take on this, depending on individual needs. It would be foolish to ignore business license and income tax issues. Of course you need to be in line with city, county, and state laws as to what animals you can have. I have heard of some places that do not allow the keeping of large constrictors for example.

Good luck with your new business,
Randy
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Firehouse Herps

Ditto on what everyone else has said about checking local laws and ordinances but all in all, if those are in your favor, this sounds like a great idea to help educate kids and dispel so many of the terrible myths that surround these misunderstood creatures.

Keep us posted on how your plans are coming along!