Taking a Pet Snake in Public?
Pet Snake in Public
In recent years, the trend of taking exotic pets, such as snakes, out in public has gained popularity among animal enthusiasts and social media influencers. While it might seem like a unique and intriguing way to showcase your love for these reptiles, there are significant reasons why carrying a pet snake around with you in public is not advisable.
Safety First
One of the most compelling reasons to avoid taking any pet reptile in public is safety. Snakes, regardless of their size or temperament, are still wild animals and can have unpredictable behavior. Even the most docile snake can become agitated or frightened in a public setting. Many reptiles will bite or flee when afraid.
A snake bite (we’re talking about non-venomous pet snakes here) can be painful and cause infections. Certain snakes, (water and garter snakes, for example) have an anticoagulant in their saliva. The bite will not bleed profusely but may ooze for a long time after the bite occurs. To ensure the safety of yourself and others, it’s best to keep your snake in a secure enclosure when outside your home.
Fear Factor
Not everyone is comfortable around snakes. For many people, encountering a snake unexpectedly in a public place can be extremely frightening. This can lead to panic, hysteria, or even accidents, as people may react in ways that are unsafe for themselves and others. Of course, in some cases, that may be the reason behind people taking their snakes in public — making people uncomfortable.
It is essential to educate the public about snakes and their behavior. However, subjecting unsuspecting individuals to close encounters with these creatures can create unnecessary fear and anxiety. Respect for others’ ophidiophobia and fears is a crucial aspect of being a responsible pet owner.
Ethical Considerations
Consider the well-being of the snake itself. Taking a snake out in public may subject it to unnecessary stress. Snakes are sensitive to vibrations, temperature changes, and unfamiliar environments. The constant handling and exposure to strangers in public places can lead to stress-related health issues, negatively impacting the snake’s overall welfare. A pet snake, used to being in an enclosure most of the time, can actually die due to just this type of stress.
Moreover, using a snake as a fashion accessory may trivialize the importance of proper reptile care and responsible pet ownership. Snakes deserve an environment where they can thrive, not be paraded around for social media likes or shock value.
Health Concerns
Lastly, there are potential health risks associated with taking your pet out in public. Snakes can carry various pathogens, including salmonella (more often associated with turtles, but any reptile or bird can carry it), which can be transmitted through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. In a public setting, you may inadvertently expose yourself and others to these health hazards.
Salmonella can be a serious problem for very young, elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
In Conclusion
While showcasing your love for exotic pets is understandable, it’s essential to prioritize safety, ethical considerations, and the well-being of the animal. Taking your pet snake in public with you can pose unnecessary risks to you, the snake, and those around you. Instead, consider alternative ways to share your passion for these fascinating creatures, such as educating others about responsible reptile ownership or supporting conservation efforts to protect these amazing animals in their natural habitats.
