For a snake, I would recommend a savings of $200-300 per snake for your basic stuff and general, but not too serious, illnesses and accidents. If you ever wind up with an emergency though, I suggest applying for Care Credit (apply ahead of time - before an emergency arises). This is a wonderful tool and has saved my butt several times. It is a credit card with deferred interest that is used for medical expenses. Most vets accept it although you'd have to speak to your own vet to be sure. And you can even use it for yourself! I have lots of animals (I raise German Shepherds and I have a couple of horses too) so its been a God-send for me with any animal related emergency.