How I go about the question is by asking if dogs, cats , hamsters are ok to have as pets on the property. See how they react to that question to get a general idea of there stance on pets.

I then usually go about hypothetically wanting to get some reptiles which would be stored in properly closed cages. Usually if you butter landlords up a little with hypotheticals, facts, and extra cash deposits they will go for it. Just don't give them a reason to question you too much at the beginning about quantity or what type of reptiles.

I try to be honest about having animals but vague that they are snakes. If your just building a relationship with someone saying snakes is a red flag. Like a job interview you want to put your best foot forward maybe stretch the truth a little but keep things reasonable.