Boa Constrictors As Pets

If you are thinking of getting a new pet, and have considered existing pets and in particular a large snake such as a boa, it is imperative that you are aware of several factors and think them over carefully. Please consider the following two issues:

The size of a boa constrictor: One of the most common types of boa that is kept as a pet by people is the boa constrictor imperator and you need to be aware that this can grow to 7 - 8 feet in length. If you think that is impressive, then you will be even more awed to discover that the red tailed boa grows beyond the 10 feet margin. Hopefully, it should be fairly evident that you will need a considerable amount of space for your red tailed boa, so that it can move around freely and without discomfort. Large boas also need to eat a lot, and large prey items such as rats or even rabbits will need to be offered.

The lifespan of a boa: If you are planning on purchasing a boa, then you need to be aware that you will need to be prepared for a long term commitment which can easily stretch as long as 30 years. You need to consider how you will accommodate your boa's needs during the course of any major changes in your personal circumstances, what if you are taken to hospital for an extended period of time? Do you know of anyone who would be prepared to clean and feed a 10 foot snake for you?

Now that we have raised and considered two areas of potential concern, let us now consider whether or not they are actually worth such an investment of time and energy. First and foremost, boas require a certain amount of work to keep them happy and safe, and so this deters a great number of potential owners.

Snakes are classified as exotic pets and the amount of pleasure that they bring the lucky owners who are fortunate enough to own them is immeasurable. I speak from personal experience for I have owned and cared for a large number of different reptilian friends over the years, but it is the boas that really capture my heart. Some people take one look at them and feel fairly intimidated by them as they fear that they are dangerous or that the boa will strike at any moment. In reality, most captive boas are docile creatures indeed and to be perfectly blunt, they are probably much more frightened of you than you are of them. Just be gentle, patient and reassuring with them and give them the respect they deserve, since no matter how docile they seem they are still large and powerful animals.

Whilst there can be no denying that snakes require a very precise regime of temperature, humidity and diet, they are actually very low maintenance. Cats and dogs maybe the more popular forms of pets but if truth be told, the reality of the matter is that they can be a major burden on their owner. This is because the owner has to contend with their constant demands for exercise, food, attention and the cat/dog will not stop whining until they get what they want. The snake on the other hand, will require only a few minutes each day and otherwise can be left alone.

In summary, boas do require a certain amount of work, patience and commitment to keep in good health. However, if you are both able and willing to invest the requisite amounts of time required to keep them happy then you will be well rewarded for your efforts with a loyal and exotic pet who will be your faithful companion for a number of years. Before you make a decision as to whether they are the right pet for you, then make sure you read up on the subject, speak with other boa constrictor owners and get their opinion on the matter. They can help provide invaluable insight into some of the common pitfalls that a boa constrictor owner will need to contend with.

-->