How to Buy a Pet Boa Constrictor

Not everyone is satisfied with a traditional domestic pet. After all, dog and cat food comes in bags, not wriggling around in small pet store cages. Plus, you don't get the added bonus of watching a dog or cat squeeze the life out of its prey before meal time. But a boa constrictor is a whole other ballpark.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Buy Through a Reptile Breeder

1. Call around to find a reptile breeder that is both reputable and knowledgeable. A good breeder will be able to answer any questions you might have about choosing the right snake, as well as long-term care for the animal once you bring it home.
2. Set up a time when you can visit the home of the breeder you'd like to do business with. Pay close attention to the surroundings. The snakes should be in a clean, spacious environment, and show signs of good care and nutrition. Beware of hobby breeders versus those who take the job seriously.
3. Meet the parents! One of the benefits of going through a private breeder is the opportunity to observe the mother and father snakes. This will give you a general idea of what the babies will grow up to look like, and perhaps a preview of their temperament.
4. Get specific details about the breed of the boa. There are certain subspecies that can prove problematic for beginners due to rare but serious health issues. Be sure that, if just starting out, you are getting one of the heartier breeds.

Buy From a Pet Store

5. Get information about where the pet store obtains its snakes. A reputable pet store should be able to provide information about the breeders from which they purchase their snakes and other exotic pets.
6. Take full consideration of the store's accessories, not just the animals. They should have a full, adequate stock of all things needed for the care and maintenance of your pet. Food, housing, bedding, heat lamps and skin care products should all be available.
7. Talk to the staff. You should leave the pet store feeling confident in their knowledge of snake care and temperament. Be wary of retailers that are short on information and seem as though they're just looking to make a quick sale.
8. Ask the store about their return policy. No one likes to think about a pet falling ill the day they come home from the store, but it sometimes happens. You should find out if they have a time limit in which you can bring back a unsuitable pet.
9. Inspect the health of the food at the store if this is where you will be shopping for your snake's diet. Make sure the mice and rats are in good health and not suffering from something that could eventually be passed on to your snake.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you have made an absolute decision to purchase a pet boa constrictor, begin making preparations. Your new snake's home should be up and running before you even bring it through the door.