How to Keep a Pet Garter Snake

The garter snake is the single most widely distributed reptile in North America. Its relatively docile nature and its frequent presence on lawns and flower beds have earned it the affable nickname of "garden snake." Because of the garter's calm temperament, simple diet and low maintenance costs, keeping a garter snake as a pet is relatively easy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Give the snake a proper tank. A garter snake is a fairly calm and slow-moving reptile, but it still needs a proper environment to stay healthy. The tank should be roughly twice the length of the snake and should be kept slightly above room temperature. Adding stones, branches and artificial foliage will help the snake ease into its environment.
2. Handle the snake with care. It is perfectly acceptable to handle the snake and even "play" with it. However, you should be careful not to squeeze the snake too tightly. Children should be supervised since the snake, even though it's not poisonous, can bite. If you let the snake wander freely keep an eye on it to make sure it stays out of trouble.
3. Feed the animal properly. Like any other animal, a garter snake needs to be fed a proper diet if it is to be kept as a pet. A garter snake's diet should be relatively varied, including earthworms, fish, leeches and slugs. In the case of earthworms, make sure to wash the worm first so pesticides or other chemicals do not poison your pet snake.
4. Give the snake special care. A garter snake is perfectly adept at surviving in its own wild environment. In captivity, though, the snake needs to be supplemented with exercise and nutrients to remain healthy. Use a reptile supplement such as Nature's Reptile Vita-Spray and take the snake outdoors so it can interact with different environments. Make sure that the snake is shedding its skin every month or two to ensure that the animal is healthy.