How many HOT herp keepers out there?

[loganh83]

I have kept fish for many years and been getting more into herps. I haev kept a snake for 3 years now and considering keeping a hot snake.(Venomous)

I like Agkistrodon and almost anything Crotalus. Not really into Elapids, little antivenom around.

Any hot herpers have advice or words of wisdom?

 

[monster convist]

i wouldnt but if i did i would get the stuff that cures you when it attacks you if that ever happens

 

[A. gigas]

invest in a handling hook and tongs, as well as antivenom. you will regret it if you don't, and you WILL be bit at one point or another. be very careful, and start out with something that can not kill you, like a copperhead, they are dangerous, but cannot kill an adult unless you are allergic. get the feel for it, see how it reacts when handled it, then consider buying a more toxic specimen. many communities will require you to take a class and buy a permit. good luck!

 

[TTTT]

I would (and will) keep some hots when I get my own place.

 

[Noto]

I have kept A. contortrix, A. piscivorus, and C. horridus in an institutional setting. As far as hot snakes go, they are relatively easy-going, predictable, and easy to handle. They can be moved using tongs or hooks, and quickly become accustomed to being handled.

Still, you should log in some hours with venomous snakes under the supervision of an experienced handler/keeper before trying any of these at home. Also be sure to check with local hospitals. Even places that keep CroFab on hand may keep a very small supply, not enough for treatment of severe envenomation.

Take some care when planning the snake enclosure. Obviously the cages must be secure, but also consider the possibility of a loose snake. You want a room that can be easily closed off in that event, and where there are few hiding places for the snake.

I personally would not keep venomous snakes in my home; the risk is simply not worthwhile to me.

 

[snow]

hhhhhhhhhmmmmmmm bacon...I'm having some right now. Bacon is in the win for the polls!!!LOL

 

[boldtogether]

After I'm done building the tank to house that Great White I've always wanted, I'm gonna get a Dendroaspis polylepis,(Black Mamba).

Sometimes we need to ask ourselves, 'should I?'

 

[A. gigas]

the fact that bacon is winning is just sad...

 

[packer43064]

I voted before I read the last option. Would have totally voted for BACON!.

 

[Vicious_Fish]

I personally would not keep venomous snakes in my home; the risk is simply not worthwhile to me.

I couldn't agree with you more. To me keeping them is far more dangerous than owning any gun. You can leave a loaded handgun on a table and it won't jump up and start shooting indiscriminately. But if your hot snake gets out somehow.....well....you basically have no control over it what so ever. Just my opinion.