Every parent has gone through it: the weeks and months of begging that follow your child's realization that they desperately want a pet. They will most likely promise to love it and take care of it, in that order for some reason. While your child may have a furry animal in mind, they may actually do better with a lower maintenance pet like a reptile. There are so many reptiles for sale online that your child could have their pick. A favorite reptile of many enthusiastic kids and teens is one of the many different breeds of snakes. If your child chooses a snake, do you know how you would care for it? Here are a few of the basic needs of this beloved reptile, which you will need as a new reptile parent.
Terrarium
For a small snake (less than 48 inches long) a 20-gallon glass tank will serve well. If you are planning on getting a snake that will grow to exceed 4 ft, you may need to someday upgrade to a larger tank. When choosing a terrarium, make sure to get one with a well-ventilated lid that attaches securely to the base. Snakes are always searching for ways to get into a larger or different area, so if your lid is not securely attached you may someday be searching your home for your pet.
UV Light
As a cold-blooded animal, snakes need external sources to heat their body. This is done by using a UV light. Their UV light should be on most of the time, allowing them ample opportunities to bask in the warmth that it offers. Without the appropriate environment, your snake may suffer digestive problems, since most of their energy will go towards keeping themselves the appropriate temperature instead of doing other important things, like eating.
Decorations
The ground of your terrarium should be covered with something that your pet can burrow into, such as wood shavings or grass-like substances. In addition, they should be supplied a place to escape from prying eyes, such as a little cave or something to hide under.
Food and Water
You should provide a large solid bowl of water for your snake so that they can drink without knocking it over. Snakes are carnivores, so they will enjoy something meaty in their privacy, such as a fresh dead rodent, or something similar.
In conclusion, caring for a snake is not as complicated as it may sound at first. If you get the basics done well, your child's pet snake will thrive and you will enjoy him for many years to come.
Share28 May 2020
When you first bring home a pet, what you don't always realize is how many items you need to properly care for that pet. Even for a cat, you need a litter box, food bowls, a water dish, a climbing tree, and a couple of toys. Dogs also need leashes, collars, and kennels. A pet store is the perfect place to go shopping and obtain all of these things your pet needs for a happy, healthy life. We are pet lovers ourselves, which is why we created this website to share articles about pet stores and pet supplies. Sit down with your furry friend, and give them a read.