Willow wood

[Sophieg]

It's been very windy here in the UK recently and a massive branch from our willow tree has come down. If I cut it down and wash/disinfect it, is it okay to use in my snakes' vivs? If it is okay, do I need to strip the bark off too?

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[Bogertophis]

All I know about willow trees is this (below) so I'm not sure it's totally pet-safe- might be better off to coat it with a "no VOC" pet-safe waterproofing product,
though I doubt that enough salicin could rub off on a snake (it probably has to be boiled out) but I'm not sure I'd take the chance? You could also wrap the
branch with something (like that colorful compression wrap used for sprained ankles & such) to prevent too much contact, just in case?

The active ingredient in the medicine made from willow bark is called salicin. Some people use willow bark as an alternative to aspirin, particularly those that experience chronic headaches or back pain. ... It comes from the branches of 2- to 3-year-old willow trees.

[Sophieg]

All I know about willow trees is this (below) so I'm not sure it's totally pet-safe- might be better off to coat it with a "no VOC" pet-safe waterproofing product,
though I doubt that enough salicin could rub off on a snake (it probably has to be boiled out) but I'm not sure I'd take the chance? You could also wrap the
branch with something (like that colorful compression wrap used for sprained ankles & such) to prevent too much contact, just in case?

The active ingredient in the medicine made from willow bark is called salicin. Some people use willow bark as an alternative to aspirin, particularly those that experience chronic headaches or back pain. ... It comes from the branches of 2- to 3-year-old willow trees.

Ah okay thank u! Our willow tree is alottttt older than 2 to 3 years old lol

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[Sophieg]

All I know about willow trees is this (below) so I'm not sure it's totally pet-safe- might be better off to coat it with a "no VOC" pet-safe waterproofing product,
though I doubt that enough salicin could rub off on a snake (it probably has to be boiled out) but I'm not sure I'd take the chance? You could also wrap the
branch with something (like that colorful compression wrap used for sprained ankles & such) to prevent too much contact, just in case?

The active ingredient in the medicine made from willow bark is called salicin. Some people use willow bark as an alternative to aspirin, particularly those that experience chronic headaches or back pain. ... It comes from the branches of 2- to 3-year-old willow trees.

Do u know what other type of tree branches I can find that r completely safe?

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[Bogertophis]

Do u know what other type of tree branches I can find that r completely safe?

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No...I don't even know what area you're in, lol. We all have various trees that are native & still many others that are imported ornamentals. Your best bet is to ask local
vets about it, or people in a tree nursery may also know (not necessarily what is safe for snakes but what is generally toxic). Most branches are safe for snakes because
snakes don't chew on them like other pets (birds, dogs, etc) might, but in the case of willow, I thought it best to be informed...I don't know if it's an issue or not, honestly.
Maybe search a bearded dragon forum...I remember seeing an extensive list about toxic/safe plants & branches but don't have it on hand. The only ones I know to avoid
for snakes are the pine & cedar types that have a fragrance (aromatic oils) that are irritating &/or toxic, or may also have a sticky sap.

[Sophieg]

No...I don't even know what area you're in, lol. We all have various trees that are native & still many others that are imported ornamentals. Your best bet is to ask local
vets about it, or people in a tree nursery may also know (not necessarily what is safe for snakes but what is generally toxic). Most branches are safe for snakes because
snakes don't chew on them like other pets (birds, dogs, etc) might, but in the case of willow, I thought it best to be informed...I don't know if it's an issue or not, honestly.
Maybe search a bearded dragon forum...I remember seeing an extensive list about toxic/safe plants & branches but don't have it on hand. The only ones I know to avoid
for snakes are the pine & cedar types that have a fragrance (aromatic oils) that are irritating &/or toxic, or may also have a sticky sap.

Oh okay thank u! I'll have a look at those bearded dragon forums!

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