Pet snakes may be off-putting to some, but to snake owners, they are just as important and special as any other pet. Snakes make excellent additions to households that understand how to treat and care for them, and there are many types of snakes bred specifically for the purpose of keeping as pets. As your trusted snake vet in Miami, FL, we have you covered with all your pet care needs.
If you have a pet snake, or if you’re thinking about getting one, it’s important to find a snake vet who can help you with any health concerns along the way. A good snake vet will be able to handle most, if not all, types of snakes that are legally available as pets in your area and can assist with a variety of healthcare needs as well.
Paws and Claws Medical Center specializes in exotic pets and we have the team and equipment necessary to provide snake owners with the best vet care in all of South Florida.
Most Common Snake Pets
There are a few types of snakes that are generally considered to be legal pets in most places. These include the red-tail boa, the Kenyan sand boa, the king snake, the corn snake, the hognose snake, the milk snake, and the ball python.
In some places, larger snakes are legal as pets, too. These include the rat snake and Burmese python, among others. No matter what type of snake you’re thinking about keeping as a pet, be sure to check local and state laws to find out whether or not you need a permit for your pet.
Types of Snake Vet Care
Snakes require a certain level of care that most animals don’t. It’s important to know the different types of care that snakes can receive so you can be the best pet owner possible. Below, we’ll go over some of the most common types of snake care that we offer. Of course, don’t hesitate to call us or schedule an appointment online if you are unsure about the health of your snake.
Acute Illness and Injury
If your snake is injured in some way or suddenly becomes sick, you’ll need to take them to the vet. As your snake vet in Miami, FL, we will be able to determine the extent of any injury or illness and can prescribe the right method of treatment from there.
Parasites
Snakes often contract parasitic infections and need to be treated to get rid of them. Mites are the most common parasite in snakes, but there are others to be wary of as well. We can help you understand how to prevent and treat these issues.
Eating Troubles
Many types of pet snakes go off of food now and then, especially during certain times of the year. However, if your snake is having physical trouble eating or striking, or if they haven’t eaten in a very long time, a vet visit may be in order.
Husbandry Needs
Vets can help you understand the basic husbandry needs of any type of snake. We can also let you know if some small changes to your snake’s temperature, humidity, or enclosure might help with health or behavioral problems you may be dealing with.
New Snake Pet Care
When you have a new pet snake, you should take them to the vet right away for a wellness check. This will let you know if the snake has any health concerns and will also determine whether or not he has mites or other parasites that could spread to your existing pets.
Reasons to See a Snake Vet
There are many potential reasons to bring your snake to the vet, but here are some of the most common reasons we see. As mentioned above, if you ever feel that something isn’t right with your snake, don’t hesitate to call us.
Breathing trouble: Snakes suffer from respiratory infections very easily, and even something as simple as a change of a few degrees in their enclosure temperature can cause this. If you notice your snake breathing strangely, hear them breathing loudly, or see bubbles around their mouth and nose, take them to the vet.
Difficulty shedding: A single bad shed in a pet snake is usually nothing to worry about and can often be treated by improving the humidity conditions in the snake’s enclosure before the next time he sheds. However, if your snake has frequent bad sheds, you may need to take them to the vet to find out why.
Difficulty eating: If your snake is having trouble swallowing food that is an appropriate size for them, if they strike but can’t seem to grab their food, or if they’re not showing interest in eating at all, a vet may be able to help you find solutions to this issue.
Constipation: Snakes become constipated easily, especially when they eat something a little too large for them. You may be able to take care of a constipated snake at home by washing them gently with a warm washcloth, but if your snake’s temperament or health condition won’t allow this, a vet can assist.
Unusual lethargy: Snakes are not known for being incredibly active, but if you are a snake owner, you know what normal activity for your snake looks like. If you notice them becoming more and more lethargic, this may be an indicator that they are sick. You should take your snake to the vet to find out the cause.
Quality Veterinary Care for Your Snake
No matter what type of pet snake you have, and no matter how large or small your snake may be, it’s important to establish a solid relationship with a snake vet in Miami, FL as soon as possible. Your pet may need health care and support beyond what you can provide someday, and having a good vet available will make a big difference in your snake’s well-being.
Paws and Claws Medical Center has been helping snake owners in Miami and the surrounding areas for many years and pet owners can trust us for all their snake care needs.