Why do you say it is unethical to surgically remove the venom glands from a venomous snake? We (I mean people here) have always surgically altered animals to suit our purposes. We spay/neuter dogs, cats, livestock, etc., and we also de-claw cats. We crop the ears and tails of several species of dogs. Sometimes we even surgically alter ourselves -- tying tubes, vasectomies, plastic surgery, etc. Why is removing the venom glands of a snake any different? As long as the surgery is performed by a knowledgeable and experienced veterinarian and proper post op care is provided, I see little wrong with this procedure.

RP