How much freedom for a BP?

[joannarea]

Is it stressful to let my BP climb around in a very large artificial tree, the leaves are plastic, but the trunk and branches are real wood. She has done this for several weeks, I thought it might be something she would like. But all the talk of stressing a BP, I am not sure I should let her. She sees fine with it, although sometimes acts alittle less pleased at being back in her tank. And I am trying to resolve a no eat problem that I wonder if this could be an effect of letting her climb the tree.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Is it stressful to let my BP climb around in a very large artificial tree, the leaves are plastic, but the trunk and branches are real wood. She has done this for several weeks, I thought it might be something she would like. But all the talk of stressing a BP, I am not sure I should let her. She sees fine with it, although sometimes acts alittle less pleased at being back in her tank. And I am trying to resolve a no eat problem that I wonder if this could be an effect of letting her climb the tree.

I would be very cautious with this, BP are not arboreal snakes they are ground dwellers, they will climb though however they are very clumsy and often fall.

[tigerlily]

I would be very cautious with this, BP are not arboreal snakes they are ground dwellers, they will climb though however they are very clumsy and often fall.

My sentiments exactly. I would be concerned about injuries from a fall.

[joannarea]

OH GOSH, THANK YOU! I never thought about her being a ground dweller and could have fallen from lack of ability. I did think what if she would fall, but "snakes climb trees"..Now I know not all and not BP. Thanks so much. I have her, a cat and a dog. I love my babies, kids grown and gone, and alone they are my inhome family.

I have people tell me that Chocolate will not strike my cat and dog due to she will sence they are to large to eat. Myth?? or truth?

[frankykeno]

While I think it's lovely that you care about all three of your pets, I would personally never let them interact at all. Snakes are predators as are canines and felines. The snake may well strike at your dog or cat in a defensive manner in order to protect itself from perceived danger. It may also simply become so stressed by the exposure to the dog and cat (and the tree climbing) that it's immune system can be compromised or you may see a refusal to eat (which apparently you are seeing).

Even the most well behaved pet dog or cat can try to "play" with your snake and injure it before you can intervene. A cat often slaps at anything that moves quickly and it's not the cat's fault, it's just instinctive. Dogs often grab at things and those canine teeth or a quick shake of your dogs head can result in a severe injury to your snake.

I know I'm over cautious on some things but when it comes to snakes and other household pets, we just keep them completely apart for everybody's own good and for our peace of mind.

[joannarea]

Thank You Frankykeno for the information. I don't let my pets mix, I had been told by the store keeper I got Chocolate from that I didn't need to be overly concerned about the BP striking my cat or dog. Regardless I keep it safe, was just curious on the reliability of the store keepers knowledge. Better sources here!! My dog (same breed as in your picture) is shy and stays away. Tho jealious when I hold Chocolate. The cat wants nothing to do with the BP, but on unexpected occassions will jump up next to me unaware I am handling Chocolate. I make her get down. I really appreciate the feedback, and will continue to give each their time, in their seperate place. And no tree climbing! I really feel bad about being so nieve, I hope she eats next week..She is young and healthy but not so fat that she could go without eating for long. What is done for a BP who starts to loose weight by going off their feed? P.S., Toledo is a nice area. Use to live in Bryan. Raised Indiana, and moving home in June. I have to start seeking out travel advice for Chocolate.













thank You