Hi,
Do ball pythons carry parasites a lot? Is it not good too buy a ball python from the pet store? Thanks
Answers:
Pythons, as well as any other snakes, can carry parasite, both externally and internally, and also mites and ticks. It doesn't matter if you buy from a breeder or a pet store, both have been known to sell snakes carrying the parasites. There are medications for such parasites, and also for mites and ticks, that can be bought in your local pet stores. My advice would to be to make sure that there are local veterinarians in your area that specialize in herps.
Ball pythons from good breeders don't usually have parasites. If you buy them at Petsmart or Petco, or a sleazy local store, they might. If you have a high-end tropical animal store in your area, you could find a good one there. Otherwise you can look on www.kingsnake.com for breeders and reptile shows in your area.
Also, I suggest you buy an older python, at least 6 months to 1 year, because the babies have problems with shedding and don't eat well and if you get a little baby, it might die on you. :-/
Most pet stores carry imports, and imports means parasites. Your best bet as suggested, is to buy from a breeder. Right now ball pythons are everywhere at shows and you should be able to find one easily. They are a finicky reptile though and not one I'd recommend as a first time snake even though people will tell you otherwise. Ball pythons are the snake I get the most questions about as far as feeding problems.
Nah, they should be fine..
As for pet stores, only buy from a reputable one. You're better spending a bit extra money, than it dying on you.
Also, it's best to buy ones who no longer need assisted feeding, as it can be tricky for professionals, never mind beginners! You should discuss any treatments the snake's had in it's life, and there should be a diary of sheds and feeds. You should also find out what size mice it's been taking, as well as what colour, as some snakes will only take white, some will only take coloured and some.. don't care.
Good luck!
Ball pythons can carry mites and parasites like that. Like the other users have said, if you buy the python from a reputable breeder or pet store, you should have absolutely no problems with parasites. Any reptile is prone to carrying and transmitting salmonella, no matter where you buy it from, so it's always a good idea to wash your hands after handling reptiles.
I do know for a fact that PetCo undergoes regular live animal inspections from regional animal care personnel, and I've yet to see a mite on any of the ball pythons there. I should know. I work there. :)
If you do a little bit of hard digging to find local breeders in your area, you can probably find a more valuable morph (e.g. caramel) for less than the price of a "normal" ball python from a pet store.
Good luck finding your python.
Most ball pythons do not carry parisites but i sugest buying a snake from a place like snake jungle
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