Reptile Forum, Reptile Classifieds - CaptiveBred

[H.S.]

I have been asked by somebody if the Hognose snake would be a suitable first snake.
I haven't experienced keeping them myself, and have heard no real reason why they should not be considered. However, I did mention that they are mildly toxic. However, I wasn't able to commit to just how toxic.
Am I right in thinking that the toxicity level of the Hognose is virtually negligable?. The person in question has a 7yr old child, and no doubt the child will handle the snake at some point.
I know that with all due care and being sensible that a bite would be rare, and I know that the Hognose is rear fanged so for the snake to invenomate, the bite would have to be in the right place, but I am being asked by somebody else, and it is not a decision for me, I thought I would seek advice from somebody who can give me a difinitive answer as to just how toxic a Hognose is.
Would you advise somebody to get a Hognose as their first snake?.

Btw, I'm not after suggestions of other snakes that could possibly be more suitable, it is only the Hognose that I am unsure about, and that is the snake the person is most interested in.
_________________
31August2008-Kent Reptile Show (Amphibians & Inverts welcome) for more information & Booking e:mail: mrac@sky.com

[Gazza85]

Personally, I would recommend a hognose as a starter snake, as they do not get to big and rarely bite.

As for bites, they are excitable feeders, so keep fingers away at dinner time. lol. That would be with most snakes aswell though.

As for the venom, it usually causes swelling and an aching pain, but the snake has to bite and CHEW you to get its back fangs in.

In light of a young child, my family and friends children have held my hoggies without me worrying of bites.

[serpent]

Totally agree with Gazza

Great little snakes.
_________________
People laugh at me because I am different
I laugh at them because they are all the same.