The most important factor in buying a snake is its health. Once you determine that the snake you are buying is healthy, you should consider its species, age, colour, pattern, sex, food, and cost. If buying from a snake breeder, determine their experience and reputation using references where possible. Be equally observant when buying a snake from a private party to ensure it has not been mistreated and that it has been cared for properly.

Your Snake�s Health
When you go to purchase a snake, carefully observe the inside and outside of the cage for dirty surroundings. You may see some sloughed skin or droppings in the cage, but there shouldn�t be a lot. Overcrowded tanks are bad for snakes and, if you see dead snakes, don�t buy. Be sure the snake you buy has been bred in captivity and is not a wild snake. Wild snakes can come with serious problems.

Observe the shape of the snake. Never buy one that is resting sideways, with its head on the floor or has its mouth open. The snake�s spine may be visible, but it shouldn�t be too skinny. If a snake has bits of skin stuck all over it or loose folds of skin, do not buy it; it hasn�t been cared for properly.

Have your snake checked by a vet. Keep a sample of its faeces and store it in the refrigerator until you can take it to a vet. Never put a newly purchased snake into a cage with other snakes until it has been examined and quarantined for at least three months.

Your Snake�s Age
Age may not matter a great deal when buying a snake. Baby snakes can make good pets, but if you buy a baby snake, make sure it eats. A snake that is a little older may be a better choice for a beginner because they will have been handled and feed regularly.

Your Snake�s Cost
Be wary if the snake seems ridiculously cheap in contrast to other snakes of the same breed. There may be an underlying reason.

Your Snake�s Species, Colour, and Pattern, Sex, and Food
Avoid dangerous snakes, such as poisonous snakes. The ownership of certain breeds is governed by legislation. Colour and pattern should reflect the species of snake. Always check these carefully as unscrupulous sellers have been known to pass off one breed as another more expensive) one. The sex of the snake is up to you and makes little difference. Be sure the snake knows how to feed and that you know what to feed it. Find out where to buy the snake�s food. Also be aware that many snakes eat live animals: this can prove distressing for many owners.

If you are planning to keep your snake indoors, you should also be aware that even the best cared for snakes can create a noticeable odour. This isn�t an issue for many people but it may affect the choice of location for the snake.

Conclusion
A snake can make a great pet, but be sure that you purchase a healthy specimen, bred to be a pet. Be sure that you know how to care for it properly and what this entails. classifieds.co.uk has a good choice of snakes from breeders and private sellers. Always check your snake�s health and the environment in which it has been living before committing to a purchase.
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25 July 2010
Good condition 2x2 beech vivarium with sliding glass doors. includes ceramic safe light fitting. .
£30
GU34
16 May 2010
I have a 6 month old male anery corn snake sheds and feeding well very friendly comes with a plastic starter set up including heat mat and a spare heat mat water bowl temp reader which is attached at side the viv and hide log and whatever pinkies i have left if you need to know . .
£65
NG33
14 May 2010
3ft male snow corn snake, 3 years old, proven breeder. eats mice or chicks every 2 weeks, sheds regularly. cloluring is white with caramel colour sadles. is very placid and friendly, is good being handled by young children, loves lots of attention. .
£100
TA14
5 year old male, very light normal and 3 year old female german giant. proven breeders (had 3 clutches last summer). eat 2 packs of crickes a week and plenty of green veg as well. very friendly and playful, knock on the glass when want to come out, have developed great personali. .
£200
TA14
Baby bearded dragons, parents - dad normal - mum german giant. 6 weeks old, fully established, eating crickets and green veg. have very unique tails, the tails have kinks in them its not from tail biting its just a birth defect. but they are very beautiful and different. .
£30
TA14
A male disabled bearded dragon, 9 months old. he has a foot missing on his back left leg. he is still able to run, climb, catch food, etc. he is a little small for his age as he was the runt of his litter and got bullied by the bigger ones. he eats crickets and green veg. he is . .
£30
TA14
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