Ringneck Snake Care Sheet

Diadophis punctatus

Northern Ringneck Snake

Description: The Northern Ringneck Snake is shy and reclusive in its behavior. It prefers to spend its day hiding in the crevices of bark from trees or underneath areas that are moist. They only reach lengths of 12-18 inches. Ringneck’s would much rather flee than put up a fight when being captured. These little critters are not suitable for the novice herper as they can be finicky eaters and the accommodations for keeping them can vary from snake to snake.

Substrate: 1/3 Peat Moss, 1/3 Sand, 1/3 Soil placed at a depth of about 1 inch or

     Any combination suitable for a temperate forest habitat.

Housing: 10-gallon terrarium will last the reptile its entire life.

Diet: Crickets, wax worms, earthworms, and salamanders.

Temperatures: Daytime temp: 70°F - 75°F

Basking Spot: 80°F - 85°F

Nighttime temp: 65°F - 70°F

Other: Water bowl with a diameter of 3 inches and a depth of 1 inch is recommended.

            The terrarium substrate must be moist at all times. Spraying the terrarium daily with a water bottle is ideal.

            A 10-gallon terrarium is suitable for up to two snakes.

           If the snake refuses to eat try rubbing a salamander against an earthworm and then offering the earthworm.

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Antibiotic Resistance in Our Pets

Staphylococcus aureus

            You hear about how widespread use of antibiotics in humans is pressuring microorganisms to adapt and develop resistance to the drugs administered for various illnesses but are our pets suffering the same fate? When an antibiotic is administered for an infection overtime the microorganisms are selectively pressured to change in such a way that they can fight back against the drug. This occurs over a long period and depends on how often the drug is used. If the antibiotic is used consistently over time the bacteria will become unaffected by it thus continuing to cause the animal harm.

            The European Union has banned the use of Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) given to farm animals¹. This is mainly because these AGPs are pressuring the microbes to build up resistance to the AGPs. Some of the microorganisms that have been found to be resistant to these antibiotics are zoonotic. Meaning the little guys can actually make humans sick. Many of these animals are used in the food industry, which increases the risk to humans.  The point of this is prevention may not necessarily be a good thing and if farm animals can have antibiotic resistant bacteria then other animals that live by our side may have them too.

Sheep and Goat Pox

            One study found that the prevalence on Multi-drug Resistant Salmonella sp. was quite high ². The researchers used birds, fish, reptiles and mammals. They concluded that 83.3% of the birds had Salmonella sp. that are resistant to streptomycin and 100% of all other animals except fish had streptomycin resistant Salmonella sp. As you may already know, Salmonella is a health risk for humans and animals alike depending on the dosage amount.

            Another question is how exposed are our beloved pets to these antibiotic resistant microbes? Well one study indicated that one mode of transfer is through contact with other animals in a veterinary setting. Often times in small animal veterinary hospitals pets are kept as residents in the hospital; this poses a serious threat of creating a mode of transmission for microbes harmful to other animals and people. Fecal samples were taken from six cats from various small animal hospitals³.  The fecal samples were tested for various species of Enterococci. 48.9% of all the Enterococci isolated were Multi-drug resistant.  More alarming was the tests that followed. Researchers found the same isolates on the cage doors, thermometers, and stethoscopes of the corresponding small animal hospitals. This suggests a mode for these bacteria to spread to other animals. Our pets.

            Looking into the issue a little more I found that dogs seem to carry antibiotic resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus ⁴ and Enterococcus faecium ⁵. The staphylococci seemed to be resistant to methicillin and the Enterococci were resistant to ampicillin. Both types of microorganisms have the possibility of causing problems in humans. This suggests that these particular microbes may possibly be acquired outside of the hospital (veterinary or human) setting do to the widespread nature of both types of microbes.

Enterococcus faecalis

            From this information, we see that bacteria are building up resistance in many other living things. With time if antibiotics are used freely and not administered with proper care, the very problems that are affecting humans could become a huge problem for our pets too. We might find ourselves fighting not only a battle for our own health but one for our animals too. The only problem with this is many of the same microbes that are now resistant to antibiotics found in animals can cause serious illness in humans. This is a difficult situation and it is hard to evaluate the current severity of the issue because the particular information is scarce. Most of the research that I have found deals with microbes that could pose a threat to humans but I wonder about the ones that our pets can only get and how resistant these organisms are. For instance, your puppy, bird, or kitty cat might get an upper respiratory infection from a bacterium that most antibiotics will not help with. Scary thought, if you ask me.        

References

1.         Casewell, M., Friis, C., Marco, E., McMullin, P. & Phillips, I. The European Ban on Growth-Promoting Antibiotics and Emerging Consequences for Human and Animal Health. J. Antimicrob. Chemother. 52, 159–161 (2003).

2.         Seepersadsingh, N. & Adesiyun, A. A. Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella spp. in Pet Mammals, Reptiles, Fish Aquarium Water, and Birds in Trinidad. Journal of Veterinary Medicine, Series B 50, 488–493 (2003).

3.         Ghosh, A., KuKanich, K., Brown, C. E. & Zurek, L. Resident Cats in Small Animal Veterinary Hospitals Carry Multi-Drug Resistant Enterococci and are Likely Involved in Cross-Contamination of the Hospital Environment. Front Microbiol 3, (2012).

4.         Epstein, C. R., Yam, W. C., Peiris, J. S. M. & Epstein, R. J. Methicillin-resistant commensal staphylococci in healthy dogs as a potential zoonotic reservoir for community-acquired antibiotic resistance. Infection, Genetics and Evolution 9, 283–285 (2009).

5.         Damborg, P. et al. Dogs Are a Reservoir of Ampicillin-Resistant Enterococcus Faecium Lineages Associated with Human Infections. Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 75, 2360–2365 (2009).

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A Worldly View on Pets

Paulie at 7 months of age.

Many times most of us don’t think about the reactions to our beloved furry, scaly, or feathered companions throughout various parts of the world. While many would readily accept our companions without hesitation others may be somewhat reserved.Throughout many countries all over the world there are vary different views on owning pets. While every individual has their own perspective on animals as pets there are social norms for each country. These norms define the ideals of people who live there and how they view pets in their society. What might seem inhumane and upsetting to one, may be every day regular life for another. This isn’t to say that commonalities don’t exist. It does how infer that when going to another place far from home, these views should be taken into consideration.

Europe’s views on pets are similar to those in the United States. Pets are revered as members of the family. Some pets like dogs and cats are kept for the purposes of work. Dogs can be used for protection or some breeds are herders. Herders are dogs that push animals like cattle or sheep in a desired direction for farmers. Cats are utilized for their supreme ability to catch rodents. Birds like parrots are kept as pets in both the United States and Europe. Although the similarities exist between the US and Europe, reptiles like snakes ands and lizards aren’t kept as pets in Europe as often as they are in the US. More people in Europe keep Hamsters and gerbils as pets more so than reptiles.

Throughout Africa, most people don’t keep pets. The animals that are found throughout the homes serve a purpose. The cattle are raised for their beef and the horses are used for transport. It is likely that the choice of pet would be a dog or cat because cats rid the area of rodents and dogs offer protection. While the pet trade places high demand on animals native to Africa, few of these are actually kept by locales. Pets are more of a source of income than a companion per say.
Many Muslims view dogs as unclean. Right after a dog is touched a ritual hand washing is followed. While dogs are seen as dirty, Muslims respect all animals and it is frowned upon to hurt them in any way. Cats are looked at as wonderful companions. Muhammad kept a cat named Muezza, that he’d not disturb if it was sleeping on his cloak.

In India many people keep pets. Cows are considered sacred and highly respected. Many animals serve a purpose in India as well. Snake charming is a profession found in many areas of India because of tourism. It is a trade that is passed down from generation to generation. Types of pets found in India are dogs, monkey’s, birds and reptiles.

The most popular pets in China are dogs. While some Chinese eat dog meat, they are increasing in popularity as pets. Some Chinese see cats as good luck. Cats have been kept as pets in China for a long time. They were used to capture mice. Birds are often taken for walks in the cage by older Chinese. The older folks will carry the caged bird to a park and carry out daily exercises with the bird in the cage hanging in a tree nearby. Another common pet in Chinese culture fish. It is believed that fish bring “plenty”. The sound of the word fish is similar to the sound of the Chinese word for “plenty”. Having a fish as a pet is a wish to have plenty or a sufficient amount.

 While many cultures have similar views on pets, there are differences. Those differences should be respected. Looking at the world from a culturally considerate perspective will help harmonize the world instead of divide it. If your traveling this is one issue that may be taken into account. We can't expect others to share the same views as us. We all come from many different cultures and backgrounds. The cultures and backgrounds help define who we are. Mutual respect and an open mind is essential to obtaining a better grasp of the world in which we all live.

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Children and Pets

My Cat Creature Winking

Picture this: A young boy of about 9 running through an overgrown hay field with his black lab faithfully running behind him or a little girl having a tea party in the front yard of her suburban home with her best friend Molly the green parakeet on the back of the chair opposite her. Seeing this would help you understand why a child should not miss out on a pet.

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a child spending quality time with their pet. It is magical to watch the way they interact with the animal; Petting, talking with, and hugging on their best friend.  So what makes pets great for kids? Pets are incredible educators for children in many ways. Pets are ambassadors to friendship, responsibility and compassion. These are important characteristics that every parent wants their child to learn and grow up with. There are many pets out there that may seem well suited to be kept by children but the truth is there are many things to consider when bringing the proper animal into our homes.

Many of the same questions we ask ourselves before bringing one home are the same for children but with more emphasis. One huge aspect of a child’s pet is the ability to hold and often times cuddle with their newfound friend. So which pet is suiting for your child? 

Starting a child off with a pet can often times be challenging because things like space, affordability, and amount of care are imperative factors in the decision. A child’s age is another aspect to take into consideration as well. Most children between the ages 4 and above have potential to enjoy a pet without harming them or the animal. This of course also depends on the child’s maturity level. 

There are 7 pets, exotic and domestic, that I find is suiting for children around this age group.  While there may be others, these seem to fit most children and adults. 

·      Leopard Gecko- This reptile is hearty and meek in just about every aspect of its husbandry. Children can carry them around on their shirts as they play around in the house or apartment. These lizards do not need UVB as they are nocturnal. Which means they only wake up at night. Heating is essential but not as demanding as some other reptiles. Leopard Gecko’s are insectivores devouring any cricket or mealworm their eyes are aligned upon. 

·      Bearded Dragon- These particular lizards aren’t too difficult to keep as long as you maintain their heating requirements. While “Beardie’s” are relatively small when born they will reach lengths of about 1.5-3 feet. Like the Leopard Gecko’s they are also insectivores. For temperament, you couldn’t ask for a better lizard. 

·      Dogs- All dogs make wonderful pets for children but, I would stay away from the smaller breeds as the child may unintentionally injure them. I personally grew up with a Black Labrador that we named Crazy because he would partially swing inside our tire swing. He sure was something else. I loved that dog.

·      Ball Pythons- If the child loves snake then this python is a great fit. It doesn’t get as huge as most pythons do. Nor does it come with the aggressive nature that others do. They are hearty in that Ball pythons are forgiving in less than perfect habitat settings (Not Recommended) like if a heat light is cut on for a day, they are not likely to get sick. 

·      Cats- Cats make great pets for a number of reasons. The biggest is they are low maintenance. Most will be happy if left alone and fed. Plus there are some breeds that act like dogs in their personalities. An example is the Angora. These particular cats are known for learning to play fetch.

·      Parakeets- From green to yellow to blue, parakeets come in a variety of colors. Just like their colors vary so do their personalities. These perfect little parrots can learn to mimic and do tricks. While they can be a bit on the messy side, they can be quite affectionate. The secret to keeping these beautiful birds happy and healthy is a clean water bowl, food daily, and out of a drafts way. 

·      Fish- For a child that isn’t the touchy, feely type then maybe a Betta Fish would suffice (Thanks Kathy Hollis). This is a great starter pet because they are not expensive and they are easy to take care of. An interesting fact, as a person watches fish in an aquarium that persons’ stress level decreases. So they are not just great for kids, they may even be good for you!

As the time comes when your child wants a furry scaly or feathery friend, you will have some insight into which pets are suitable for them. Hope this helped.

 Hope you enjoyed the Post!

Questions or suggestions email me at James DWard24@gmail.com

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Responsibilities of an Exotic Pet Owner

Exotic pets are intriguing, beautiful, and just different than a dog or cat. With that difference comes a huge amount of responsibility. Most of these animals have needs that are unique to them. With their “coolness” comes lots of work on the owners’ part. Although some exotics require more effort than others, I’ve found that the more you put into taking care of them the more you get in return. Whether it is a longer life or a happier animal.

Being a responsible exotic animal owner not only requires someone to care for that particular animal, it also demands for a person to be aware of the potential dangers that animal may pose to others. Keeping the animal in a secure environment is essential. Not only should the main goal be to keep an animal from doing harm to others, there are other issues that could arise if an animal were to escape and get into the nearby woods. This might prove to be devastating to the environment. This can be seen in several examples like the Monk Parakeets thriving in New York City (http://www.brooklynparrots.com/) or the python problem that persists in the Florida Everglades (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/06/0603_040603_invasivespecies.html). There are several other cases where this has occurred. So with that being mentioned. An issue that comes from this is the uneducated pet owner.

Most who buy a pet do it on impulse. Many don’t go home and do the homework before taking an animal home.  A good example is those who purchase the baby pythons that eventually get much larger than they expected. Most think that the animals will only grow to the size of their environment; however, this is far from the truth. By not giving the animal a proper environment someone is actually neglecting that animal. It stunts the animals growth and causes the bones to form improperly leaving the animal deformed. It is the duty of an exotic pet owner to educate themselves and others. Many of the exotics sold in pet stores aren’t really pets that everyone should be purchasing. While some may get educated and decide to keep these animals, not everyone has that particular ability. For instance, American Alligators are cute when their little babies calling for their mommies with that distinct sound.

These little cuties grow to over 16 feet long and weigh over 400 lbs. They won’t just grow to their environment and it gets quite expensive to house them.  As a matter of fact, Sheila, my American Alligator is pushing 6 foot and I am in the process of ordering her a poly tank that will cost around $600 after shipment costs. That’s just for her pond setup.

It is the exotic pet owners duty to keep up with the newest laws for these animals. While most cities and states regulate its exotics in some way, there are a few that have little to no regulation.  These laws are always changing and getting more stricter because of the dangers that some of the exotics pose. Here is a good website that gives a few of the laws by state http://www.bornfreeusa.org/b4a2_exotic_animals_summary.php.  Keeping track of the newest legislation is part of being a responsible pet owner whether its exotics or cats and dogs.

Responsibility is key to safety for the animal and for us. Education is essential to the exotic pet trade. Keep in mind that just because something is cute and easy to handle while its young may not always be the case when it gets older. Keep yourself informed and up to date.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mahatma Gandhi

If you have any questions or suggestions please email me at JamesDWard24@gmail.com

Thanks and Hope you Enjoyed the Post!

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Introduction

This is a blog about the care of pets. There are many things that you don't find out until after the pet is home. Things like from certain animals going into hibernation to basic care and behavior. While most care sheets go over factual straightforward advice on caring for animals, there are many issues that come up when caring for our loved pets that can't be found so easily. This is more of a personal approach to caring for the animals that we all love. Whether your new friend is a rescue or adopted from a pet shop, there should be a little something for everyone.

I have cared for many animals over the past 20 years. My particular experience comes from the caring of exotic animals such as snakes, lizards, crocodilians, and parrots. However, I have cared for everything from Labrador Retrievers to 15 ft. pythons. I bred the larger pythons for about 3 years until I had to sell out and move in order to go to college to get more formal knowledge. I currently major in Biology at Mountain State University in Beckley, West Virginia.

This blog will be updated on a weekly basis. Anywhere from one to three blogs will be posted weekly. If you have any specific questions you can shoot me an email at jamesdward24@gmail.com.

Thanks and hope you enjoy.

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