How to Play With a Pet Snake

Snakes have not been traditionally considered to be cuddly pets. It would be unusual to venture down the reptile aisle in the pet store and discover a selection of snake toys. However, by using sensitivity and a deft touch, both the snake and the pet owner can receive enjoyment from handling and sessions of gentle play.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Inspect the snake to ensure that it is not entering a shedding cycle. Snakes are easily stressed when they are shedding, and prefer to be alone during this time.

2. Choose a play session when the snake is midway between meals. Snakes have poor eyesight, and a snake is likely to strike at you if it is hungry. It may also become upset if it is still digesting its food.

3. Let the snake's temperament be your guide. New pet snakes, baby snakes, and irritable snakes deserve the chance to become gradually accustomed to handling. Trying to play with a snake that has never been picked up might result in the snake associating the handler with an unpleasant event.

4. Bring the snake outside on a warm day, when temperatures are at or above 75 degrees. Snakes in the wild spend a significant amount of time trying to regulate their body temperatures, and your pet snake is more likely to enjoy its play session if its need for warmth is met.

5. Allow snakes less than two feet in length to coil around your arm or neck. They will enjoy the warmth of your body. Larger snakes can be draped across another comfortable object, such as a small branch.

6. Move slowly, as not to startle the snake. The snake might enjoy exploring new environments and textures outdoors, or it may just want to rest quietly and observe its surroundings.

7. Play with your snake regularly, so that it will remain accustomed to being handled. With time, your snake may come to enjoy short handling periods of 10-15 minutes several times a week.

Tips & Warnings

• Snake handling and play session tips are intended for non-poisonous snakes only. Poisonous snakes should be handled by trained herpetologists or other professionals.

• Children under 18 should be supervised by an adult when interacting with their pet snake, until it is determined that the child can handle the pet safely.

• Never attempt to play with a large constrictor alone, to avoid the risk of injury or even death. Snakes should have one handler for every three to five feet of snake.