Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have one question...

Why do people keep venmous snakes?
Why do youkeep a snake that could possibl ykill you, a snake you can't handle that much, and a dangerous snake?

people who keep venomous snakes dont view it as something that can kill you, it isn't something you brag about, its just the fact that you have respect for that animal for its power. they aren't kept for the 'cool' factor either which seems to draw some people into them, they are kept by EXTREMELY experienced hobbyists in most cases, people who have dedicated their lives to the keeping and breeding of snakes, people who know how to properly keep their animals and handle them in a safe manner to prevent accidents or injury.

you dont keep a venomous snake simply because of the fact that its venomous, its because of the love and respect for that animal, and they definitely aren't snakes you hold around your neck, they are a look but don't touch pet, but many people keep them and breed them for studying and captive breeding projects, but they should ALWAYS be left to very experiences hobbyists you can handle it.

Having worked with venomous, as well as venomoids (surgically altered snakes which are incapable of envenomation) I can say there are reasons for both. Venomous are fine to keep if you have access to antivenom, have years of experience, and are trained to handle such animals. Venomoids, while not capable of envenomation if the procedure is properly done, still bite! A venomoid must still be handled as if it were hot, and the same respect due! In the event you slip up with a venomoid at least you will not end up envenomated! The way I see it is for species of which I am not willing to work with as hots (due to lack of antivenom, or other risk factors such as for use in my public presentations) venomoids seem to reduce the liability factor. One thing is a give, the venomoids must be properly done! Creulity to animals has no excuse, and only a trained individual should preform this procedure, not a back yard butcher!

By the way, a hit from a 6 foot venomoid gaboon could still land you in the hospital! The fangs are over 2 inches long, and "boxy" they put a huge puncture wound in you, and can easily become infected. There is also a risk of them hitting something vital, or a serious vein or artery! Just some food for thought!

Take care, and the best of luck in whatever herping brings your way!

-Steve Clark

These forums seem to be in an endless loup. The pro and anti forces are not going to change their minds and the continued pricking at the wound does not help.

It takes the focus of issues and information that is definitly more interesting and less aggrivating.

So how about it?

Frank
-----
"The luxury of not getting involved departed with the last lifeboat Skipper..."

I don't have any snakes now, but really like them. My personal opinion is that if you want to keep a hot, prepare, understand the risks, be responsible and get one or however many you want. If you aren't up for getting a hot, there are plenty of fascinating non-venomous species out there. Try one of those.