How to Find Veterinarians for Snakes

Not all pet owners choose to have a traditional animal such as a cat or dog; some people are drawn to pet snakes. Since snakes are reptiles, they require different care than our canine and feline friends. Snakes need special containment, food and other considerations. Often guidance is helpful with these somewhat delicate creatures, and having a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles is beneficial in keeping your snake happy and healthy.

Things You'll Need

  • Internet access
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the Internet to search for "reptile veterinarian" in your zip code. This should bring up a listing of several vets in your area who offer medical care for snakes. There are also several websites with lists of reptile vets in each state. A few of these websites can be found in the resources section below.

    • 2

      Ask other local snake owners (if you know any) if they have any recommendations for vets with snake experience and knowledge. Some cities have clubs for reptile enthusiasts, which you can find online. Contacting these groups and sharing information with them can also help guide you to an appropriate reptile vet.

    • 3

      Call each veterinarian's office on the list and either try to speak with the reptile vet, or ask the receptionist if he can leave a message for that vet. You will want to find out what experience the vet has with your particular kind of snake, and also determine if the vet took a reptile medicine course in vet school. If the vet seems unsure about snakes and reptiles in general, you may want to look elsewhere.

    • 4

      Narrow down the list of vets from your phone research and your impression of each. You may want to visit these select vets even if your snake is not ill, in order to establish a relationship with the vet and his staff. This will also give you a chance to fully evaluate the office and the vet himself. Once you find a vet who is knowledgeable about snakes that you feel comfortable with, you will be prepared in case your snake becomes ill or needs treatment.