Possible first time owner

[Voorhees73]

Hello, I'm a first time potential snake owner and I have narrowed down my snake choice to a ball or corn. Today when I was in my vets asking if they provide care for snake the receptionist told me that's she is trying to rehome her sons 5 year old ball python. So I wondering, is getting a snake this way good for a first time owner or should I start with a baby? She did say that he is very friendly and likes to be held, also he takes frozen mice and that he's use to eating in a separate tank.....thanks .

[Evenstar]

Might not be a bad idea at all. Many folks end up with some nice animals via private sales or situations like this. Since this is a local situation, I would ask if you might be able to go over there one evening and watch it eat. That isn't something most people think to do, or aren't able to do, but this situation is a bit different and it might be possible. If she'll let you, do it. If she won't, I would begin to wonder a tad bit.

When you are able to see the snake in person, look at its condition closely. Make sure it appears to have good body weight, doesn't have stuck shed, and the vent is clean and clear. When you handle the snake, it should grip you firmly and its body should feel muscular, not flabby but not hard either. Gently use a Q-tip and, using the stick sideways (think of a dog holding a bone), gently open the mouth and check for bubbles and/or a cheesy-like substance. If you see that, stear 100% clear - that's a sure sign of an RI. Also look at the enclosure - is it clean and is the water fresh looking? What is the heat source and how is it being controlled? This will tell you how the animal has been cared for. Look the snake over VERY carefully around the eyes, under the chin, and around the heat pits for any signs of teeny tiny black dots - these are snake mites and you certainly don't want these buggers.

If this vet clinic does treat snakes, than this receptionist probably knows how to properly care for a Ball Python. You can't work at a place and not pick up a few things or two or three. As such, I would expect you to find a snake that is in reasonably good condition. I think you should go take a look.

[Voorhees73]

Thanks for the info, the lady did say I could come over and meet him so ill def check for some of the things you mentioned.

[Badgemash]

First of thank you for doing your homework before bringing home a new snake. I don't see any problem with starting out with an older animal, in fact it might be better. You don't have to worry about getting tagged by a grumpy baby, and he'll have sufficient fat reserves if moving stresses him out a bit and he goes off food for a while. Besides, 5 isn't that old, he still has many years ahead of him. Good luck with him, I hope he works out for you!

[ericarditti]

yeah seems like a good situation, id say go for it.