Hobbies And Interests
Feeding
A venomous snake keeper must ensure that all snakes in the collection under his responsibility have the maximum nutrient intake prescribed to the individual species. The keeper should follow and keep records of feeding times and amounts, making notes of any problems arising from nonfeeding problems, sickness or rejection of food. Keepers must exchange old water for fresh at least daily and clean water containers when applicable. In the case of live food, like mice or rats, the keeper should ensure that the feed animals appear in good health and have no injuries or diseases.
Housing
Keepers must maintain any snake enclosures, whether they are open air pens, large display cages or tanks. They must clean the tank bottoms or ground areas, ridding them of all foreign debris and objects that can be harmful to the snake's environment. Scenery items, such as small trees and plants should be arranged for proper placement and kept watered and cultivated. Rocks or man-made structures which serve as shelters or decoration must be kept clean and stabilized. Trash, garbage or windblown debris should be immediately removed from any open-air enclosures to prevent accidental contamination.
Enrichment
Keepers should promote physical activity according to schedules or at random intervals. This involves changing scenery positions, adding new decorations or enrichment pieces and providing clear pathways for movement within the tank, cage or pen. Environmentally controlled thermostats should be set to specifications, providing enough warmth for increased activity.
Observation and Records
Keepers must maintain daily contact with all snakes under their charge. They should be cognisant of any behavioral changes that appear abnormal. Any indications of illness, lethargy or stress should be noted in a daily log. Keepers should apprise their supervisor of any serious condition that might threaten any snake's health. Any injuries should be immediately reported so appropriate veterinarian assistance can be obtained.
Handling
Keepers must demonstrate expert preparation and handling of venomous snakes if they need to be transferred, relocated or taken to a medical care facility. Keepers must have a thorough knowledge of and experience using snake prongs, bagging techniques, and cage function for transport. A keeper should know the individual species and their habits of self-defense, whether they strike blindly, give warning before a strike and their strike range.
Medical Care
Keepers have the responsibility of making medical evaluations and performing minor medical procedures, depending on their range of experience and duties prescribed by their employer. Any medical supplies consisting of ointments, medicines and bandages should be stored appropriately and ready for use. Such medical duties might involve treatment of wounds, hygienic bathing, administering injections and other procedures to promote the snake's health.
Husbandry
Keepers of venomous snakes must be knowledgeable about the mating habits of snakes and be prepared to assist in mating procedures. The keeper should also be well trained in the incubation process, care, feeding and handling of infant snakes. The keeper should record the activities and physical conditions of each young snake in a daily log.
also be knowledgeable as they participate in breeding snakes and ensuring the offspring are well cared for.
Emergencies
The keeper is responsible for keeping and displaying a contact list of all hospitals, both local and distant, which carry antivenom for each individual species of snake in her facility. The keeper must know the proper medical procedures in caring for serious snake bites upon themselves or other individuals. The proper emergency authorities should be immediately contacted upon any snake bite. Keepers should be aware of severity of any bite and know the proper procedure to deal with it.