I read all the stories here and on other forums about stupid snake keepers. The news always has at least one good loser in it.

Any ways my point is how hard would it be to suggest new laws for keeps snakes, or possibly any pets in general. I will stick to snakes for this post but the possibiliteis are unlimited. Keep in mind as you read this I am not a tree hugger, a vegatarian or a save the whales kind of guy. I do believe if you get an animal you do your best to take care of it. If your best isn't good enough you should let it go to someone more responsible.

Here comes the good stuff.

Purchasing

People should be required before they purchase a snake to watch a 30-60 min video before hand.
This video can be used to teach:
Husbandry skills
Temperments of the spieces being purchased
Housing requirements
Feeding needs

I know this is no small logistical feat by any means. I believe this will probably keep a lot of people from actually getting pets all-together. I don't really think that is a bad thing. I know I would have never purchased an Iguana after learning about them, I would have also spent more money better housing my snake before I bought it.

Problem, buying snakes on-line. I think once people take the class they could also be entered into a national database with a sort of PIN that breeders could check to see if thier prospective clients are eligible to purchase animals. They could also be presented with a certificate to use at any store to prove they are already trained for selective breeds or species.

I think that something like this would benifit communities as a whole. I see less abuse and neglect going on due to ignorance, and better kept pets all over. Maybe I am off my rocker tonight, but I am so sick of hearing about stupid people. We all make mistakes, but I believe most people get pets with all the love in thier heart, and a little training can go a long way.

I would really like to hear what people think about this. My town (I don't live in town) has a "no snake law", I have been thinking of ways to eliminate it. I also thought of holding a class on these same basic concepts in leiu of a video. People could pay a small fee to attend and learn a lot.

Thank you for listening, reading and absorbing.