Owning a Ball python at 40?

[Caitlin]

I think the OP asked a great question, and it's one I wish more potential keepers would ask. I agree with those pointing out that the issue is really about how you plan.

As an older snake owner I appreciate this thread. I'm fortunate enough that I was able to recently retire, and continuing to keep snakes as a hobby has been a big part of my plans. As retirement grew closer, I started asking myself if it was really fair for me to keep snakes because of the chance that they'd outlive me.

After a LOT of thought and some serious and sometimes difficult conversations with friends and other keepers, I feel clear that I'm not in the wrong for continuing to keep and enjoy my scaly crew.

So here's a reality check about planning. I've kept snakes all my life. At the age of 26 I was in an accident (thank you drunk drivers) that left me so severely injured that I had to re-home my dog and all of my snakes. I would be unable to care for them for at least two years, and needed so much assistance that I couldn't justify asking friends and family to take over their care in addition to everything else I needed help with.

Once I was physically able to start keeping again, I set up a specific 'just in case' plan for each of my animals. The plan includes exactly who is to receive each; a care sheet for each; the contact number for my exotics vet; contact information for the person who agreed to take the animal; contact information for the person who has agreed to help get my snakes shipped or otherwise relocated; and funds set aside to help with food, shipping, etc. I review/change the plan as needed every year. I included the specifics in my will, have a separate hard copy of the plan in my electronic and paper files, and another copy in the possession of a trusted friend.

In my public health career I saw many situations where pets were left without their owner. One thing that I learned is that we can never just assume that friends or family will care for our pets. Ask specifically if they are interested/able to do so. I've seen some beautiful animals thrown onto Craigslist or quickly sold off to anyone who would take them because a spouse or other family member, once faced with reality, felt overwhelmed and just couldn't deal with it.

The planning may sound like a lot at first, but it isn't hard to set up. Of course it's important to be realistic about what we choose to keep, but there's a whole world of wonderful species to consider. I'd hate to see anyone who could provide a good home for a snake decide that they shouldn't do so just because of age or physical limitations.