Quote Originally Posted by caravaggiooo View Post
I'm planning to get a hoggie soon (my first snake!) and after some research, I still have some husbandry questions. Can any hognose owners help me out?

- for a PVC enclosure, should I use a RHP or UTH? is just one of either of those sufficient for a hoggie? or do I need both?
- I'm considering getting a herpstat. For whichever heating setup you'd recommend, which model is appropriate? Would an intro+ be enough? I don't really know which to get.
- is ambient humidity with a moist hide sufficient? (is the moist hide for regular use or just during sheds?)
- should I make any modifications to a PVC cage? someone suggested I make additional vents or widen the existing ones for better airflow for a colubrid. In general, is there anything else you need to do with PVC other than put holes in it for wiring?

Thanks in advance
Hello there neighbour!! I thought I would chime in and welcome you to this AWESOME community of snake lovers. First off, what breeders have you been talking to?? There are just a couple here in the GTA I would recommend. First one would be Dino Reptiles. He deals with only Hognose and BP's. His prices are high, but he has some very nice looking snakes. Second would be Tails and Scales. They have various kinds of snakes but lately have a lot of Hognose available and at reasonable prices. One thing I like about them is that they make sure every single Hognose is eating properly before they sell them. I got my little guy from them and he is an awesome eater... Both these breeders go to the monthly Expo here in Toronto, so it's an opportunity to go by and see their snakes in person as well as talk to them one on one. Don't be afraid to purchase a juvi age Hognose. If they are started out properly then there shouldn't be an issue with feeding. I currently have my guy in a 9 quart bin with aspen substrate, water bowl and hide and he LOVES his enclosure. I've also had 2 sucessful sheds from him, so I am pleased with his progress. Anyway, don't be afraid to ask questions as this is the way you learn as you go. And if you ever want a friend to go with to the Expos just give me a shout!!! Good luck and we will be looking for photos of your new hoggie real soon.