Things are changing very fast, and most families are adapting to snake pets. Due to their low maintenance costs, snake pets are loved by many since they adapt to anywhere, are self-groomed, and are easy to keep. Have you wondered why children feel relaxed with snake pits?
You don’t have to worry more since this article will discuss some reasons children get along with these pets. If you want a pet that will accommodate all family members, snakes have been voted the best, especially where kids are involved. Here are some reasons why snakes get along with kids.
1. They don’t have allergies
The fur from most pets causes inconveniences to family members, especially to those suffering from allergies. The case is not with the snake pets. According to research, children who live in households with snakes as pets suffer fewer allergies than furred animals. Children who cuddle with snake pets have fewer colds and flu and do not get as dirty as their counterparts who contact other animals. To get these and many benefits, experts from mysnakepet.com recommend getting a snake pet that’s approved. An approved snake can be kept at home. It should be healthy and one that can live with children and other family members.
2. They provide calm and comfort
Most children who play with snake pets end up sleeping peacefully beside them due to the snake’s soft skin and relaxing nature. Through the play, their minds get relaxed, and it happens they develop some affection for these reptiles, which makes it easier for them to fall asleep. According to statistics, children who play with snake pets have less stress and have a better day than other pets. Chances of finding a kid asleep with their pet beside them are more with snake pets than other animals in the same environment.
3. Snakes are harmless to children
While some pets do bite or scratch children, snake pets are the most harmless pets you can get for your child. They don’t have claws, teeth, or strong bones that may injure your child in any situation. Many cases show that cats and dogs have created permanent scars on children and are no longer trusted as companions. It is not that you won’t find a harmless cat or dog, but the chances of getting your kid injured by a dog or cat are higher as compared to snakes.
4. Snakes do not fear kids
Even on wild snakes, you will never find snakes injuring or hurting kids. There is a bond between them that makes the snake pets trust kids and vice versa. This relationship proves that kids see the snakes as harmless, and snakes feel the same affection for the kids. That’s why in every situation, even when the kid strangles, pushes, or pulls the snake, you won’t find any of them hurting. However, not all fit in this category. That’s why it’s recommended to get your snake pets from an authorized organization with an approved license. Children do not fear snakes, too, making it be termed a mutual friendship.
5. Snakes require less maintenance
While other pets require care, snake pets do not need much attention when feeding, cleaning, and grooming. This makes them be ideal pets for the kids since they don’t have to worry about carrying out these maintenance procedures for the pets. The keeping of snakes also makes the children enjoy this relationship, such as feeding them, providing water, and offering them company while playing and exercising. The snakes also shed their skin once a month, making them the cleanest natural pets that one can keep at home without worrying about their kids getting dirty or infected while playing.
6. Snakes depend on children for warmth
Some myths go around portraying that snakes and kids are psychologically connected. While it can be true, one thing that makes snakes love kids is the warmth in kids. Snakes are cold-blooded, and children are warmer. This situation makes the snakes get attracted to kids for warmth. That’s why at times, you might see the snakes becoming wild when they see a grownup separating them from kids. The snakes might even ‘protect’ the kids from the adults or any other thing appearing to separate them. The comfort the snakes get in children makes the kids love them back more, thus creating a mutual relationship.
There might be more of what meets the eye between children and pet snakes. Some of the above factors are based on scientific studies, and there might be a psychological connection between kids and snake pets. We can all agree that snakes, pets, and children make a perfect combination.
Snake Pet Species for Kids
While many kids would choose a pet fish, fluffy rabbit, little kitten, or puppy, a pet snake is also famous among aspiring herpetologists. Deciding which pet snakes are best for beginners and children can be challenging. You don’t want your child to begin their snake adventure with a pet snake that is inappropriate for children. Let’s start with a list of common pet snakes for beginners and little children.
1. Corn Snake
This type of snake typically ranges from 24 to 72 inches, making it short and thin. They usually have red markings down their backs with black edges and are orange or dark yellow. Their bellies have a checkerboard-like look with black and white marks. These snakes are among the most common pet snakes and are simple to care for, handle, and feed because they are neither venomous nor aggressive. They make excellent pets for novices, kids, and anyone with little time to devote to their pet.
2. California King Snakes
There are various king snake subspecies, and there is a wide range of colors available, including albinos and uncommon color variants that are not seen in the wild. The tri-colored scarlet king snake is generally considered one of the most popular varieties of king snakes kept; however, many more colors are available. The tri-colored king snakes can occasionally be mistaken for coral snakes, which are dangerous and unsafe as pet snakes. The same three colors are found on the body of coral snakes and have the same ringed appearance! —but not in the same order.
3. Gopher Snake
Gopher snakes are generally harmless unless threatened, unlike other snakes. A gopher snake may first need some time to adjust to its surroundings. Kids can easily handle gopher snakes that are born in captivity. Gopher snakes are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a safe, calm snake to keep around children. The more room you can provide a gopher because of how much they like to wander about, the better; also, they make excellent reptile displays.
4. Ball Phyton or Royal Phyton
The name “ball python” refers to the nature of this reptile that tightly coils around itself, placing its head in the center when threatened or alarmed. These snakes were reportedly once wrapped around Cleopatra’s wrists, so they are frequently referred to as “Royal” pythons. You might be surprised to learn that pythons are among the simplest snakes to care for, but it’s true: they make excellent pets. Their feeding requirements are simple, and they don’t often act aggressively or bite.
5. Garter Snake
Garter snakes, well-known for their small to medium size, are popular household pets. Garter snakes are typically safe around children and simple to keep. Garter snakes can live in a terrarium as tiny as ten gallons due to their small size. Garter snakes have the disadvantage of creating a mess in their habitat since they feed more frequently, requiring more frequent cleanings. Garter snakes are an excellent choice for beginner snake keepers because they are typically easier to handle due to their size. Garters often exhibit docility and rarely bite when held.