So, you've decided to take the plunge and become a proud snake owner? Good for you! Owning a garter snake can be an exhilarating adventure, but let's make sure you're equipped to handle the slithering joy that awaits you. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the essential steps to take when you first bring home your new scaly amigo.
1. Preparing the Snake Enclosure
First things first, snake enclosures need to be a home away from home for these fascinating creatures. Here's what you need to do to get it right:
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Choose an enclosure that gives your snake enough room to wiggle and grow. For those baby garters, an 18" wide tank should do the trick, while juvenile snakes will need a more spacious 36". Nobody likes feeling cramped, not even snakes.
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Now, let's talk substrate. Trust us, we've tried 'em all, and there's a staggering array of options out there. We've found that Eco Earth, Repti Chip, or similar products work wonders. Just be sure to steer clear of anything that can be easily ingested during feeding time such as sand and pebbles. Trust us, snake poop with a side of substrate is not a pretty sight, or worse if they can't pass it. To be extra safe, we recommend placing a piece of slate under all the food bowls and opting for tong feeding whenever possible. Oh, and if you're into aspen, just remember it can mold easily if water spills. Make sure you monitor it closely (which you should be doing for any substrate).
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Snakes need their hideouts, like we need our Netflix binges. Fill up those enclosures with plenty of clutter and hiding spots. The more, the merrier. Garter snakes are named after those lush bushes they love slithering around in, so give 'em the privacy and protection they crave.
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Lastly, let's talk heat. Snakes are cold-blooded, so you've got to keep things cozy. Aim for a basking spot of around 85 degrees and a cool side at 75 degrees for your garter snake. But hey, don't just rely on your gut instincts to measure the temperature. Get yourself a thermostat to keep your scaly friend from turning into a crispy critter. Remember, belly heat isn't necessary—your snake loves nothing more than soaking up the warmth like a reptilian sunbather.
- If you are unsure of the goodies you may need read this awesome shopping guide for your garter snake setup.
2. Let them get comfortable
Time to bring your snake home sweet home. Here's what you need to do to help them settle in smoothly:
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Give them some time to soak up their new surroundings before you start poking and prodding. It's like putting on a new pair of shoes – you need to break 'em in first, right?
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Resist the urge to handle or feed your snake for the first 48 hours. Let them acclimate to their new digs and minimize the stress. They'll thank you for letting them adjust in peace.
3. Feeding time is a snacktacular experience
A well-fed snake is a happy snake. Here's what you need to keep in mind:
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Choose prey that matches your snake's size. You wouldn't try to swallow a watermelon whole, would you? Well, same goes for your slithery pal.
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Opt for frozen pre-killed prey to avoid any unnecessary injuries and parasites. Let's keep the hospital bills low, yeah? And if you are feeding worms or other fish make sure that you freeze it for at least 30 days to ensure there are no parasites. The key to a balanced diet is whole prey. We suggest pinkies, chicken hearts and silversides.
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Baby garters have a big appetite and may chow down a couple of times a week, while juveniles are more of the every 5-7 days dining crowd. Keep that belly satisfied!
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Oh, and one more thing, keep an eye on your snake while they dine. We don't want them to accidentally swallow any substrate or start a full-on WWE fight with their tank mates. Safety first, folks!
4. Keeping things hydrated
Remember, hydration is key for your snake. Here's what you need to do:
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Place a fresh water dish in your snake's pad, so they can sip 'n slither to their heart's content. Many garters also enjoy swimming in their bowls, this can make water quickly .
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Change that water regularly to prevent any unwanted bacterial or fungal party crashers. Nobody likes a dirty water disco.
5. Health check time
As a responsible pet owner, it's crucial to keep a close eye on your snake's health. Here's how you can stay on top of things:
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Regularly observe your snake's behavior for any signs of illness or distress. It's like being your reptilian detective - look out for any mysterious changes.
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Take your snake to a reptile vet for check-ups and parasite screenings. You want to keep those little buggers at bay.
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Shedding is a natural process for snakes, so keep an eye on their shedding cycle. But remember an incomplete shed can hurt a snake. Make sure that if there is any stuck shed that you immediately give your friend a good soak. We suggest 24 hours in a humidity box inside their tank. This will usually do the trick.
In conclusion, embrace the snake life ...
As a new snake owner, those first few weeks with your scaly companion are vital for their well-being. By following our guide, you'll have all the knowledge and tools to create a comfortable, healthy environment for your slithering sidekick to thrive. Remember, if you're ever in doubt, reach out to a reptile veterinarian for some expert advice.