Checklist for First Timer - Page 3

Donnie · 03-20-13, 02:06 PM

Have a long hard think about the snake you want before you purchase. If you prefer boas over carpets then you should get a boa (this is coming from a carpet fan) as it will be with you for a long time. If size is worrying you with the boa then look into some of the smaller species of them. Good luck in choosing

TheSuppishOne · 03-21-13, 02:14 PM

I swear. Is there such a thing as a good product on Amazon? Normally, I'll just find something that has 4.5 stars or above and grab it, but a living animal hangs in the balance here.

Does anybody have recommendations for thermometers and hygrometers? I just bought a Herpstat 1 and Ultratherm pad (until I get a nicer enclosure, then it's Pro-Heat RHPs), but I think I still need a thermometer and hygrometer, right?

Right now, it's looking like either Accurite or Extech is the way to go. The Extech even come with a probe, but they're more expensive.

Also, since you've all been awesome. Here's a pic of my (so far) enclosure! =D

KORBIN5895 · 03-21-13, 03:32 PM

You'll need a second hide and something else to let it climb on as most snakes need more than one branch to perch on.

Also just pick a digital thermometer up at Walmart for $10.

TheSuppishOne · 03-21-13, 05:02 PM

Yes, the water bowl, second hide, and extra plants are on their way. This is just what I've done so far.

Freebody · 03-21-13, 05:20 PM

I recommend the herpstat any day of the week, but if its too costly for you right now, you can make this, I used them for a long time, cheep and you can dial the temp in pretty good, but herpstat all the way if you can get one.How to make your own Rheostat for less than $7! Detailed instructions. - CornSnakes.com Forums

erichillkeast · 03-21-13, 09:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Freebody

I recommend the herpstat any day of the week, but if its too costly for you right now, you can make this, I used them for a long time, cheep and you can dial the temp in pretty good, but herpstat all the way if you can get one. How to make your own Rheostat for less than $7! Detailed instructions.

1. He already bought a Herpstat.

2. That link is from 2005, it would probably cost twice that to make now.

3. You can buy lamp dimmer for around 10$.

4. If you really want to cheap out, at least cheap out by buying one of the 15$ thermostats off ebay.

Just my 0.02$

Rogue628 · 03-21-13, 11:09 PM

I think you have done most excellent so far.

And you have more stuff on the way.

Have you decided what substrate you're going to use? I suggest using paper at first. Even good breeders have been known to have an outbreak of mites and not know it before shipping an animal out. If your animal comes with mites, you'll be able to spot them easier on paper (preferably all white if possible). I'm not saying it's a common issue but it does happen and using paper will help you notice the problem quicker and easier if it does happen. Once you've had your animal about a month or so and all is well, you can always change to a more natural substrate.

You have done much better than what I've seen a lot of new people do. But then, most people come to the forums wanting help after they've acquired the animal. So you've done absolutely great!

TheSuppishOne · 03-22-13, 01:35 AM

Thank you, Rogue! I really appreciate the kind words!!!

I was planning on using newspaper for that very reason, but you said white paper? Like computer paper?? Is that okay to use on a snake?

Actually, I should probably ask... What is the procedure for the day your snake arrives? Should I immediately put it in the enclosure to let it relax a bit, or should I put it in a warm bathtub to make sure it doesn't have mites, or...?

stephanbakir · 03-22-13, 02:08 AM

Dumerils aren't exactly arboreal, do you have room there for enough substrate for him to tunnel in? I've never owned dumerils long term but I have had them in my possession long enough to know that they spend most of their days burrowed under the substrate.

As soon as you get the animal, inspect it to make sure its healthy, then hydrate it and put it right into its enclosure.

TheSuppishOne · 03-22-13, 02:27 AM

Well shoot. It's 14" tall, so I don't know. Even the really awesome enclosures I was looking at were only 12-14" tall... is that even enough room for a fully grown Dume to burrow??

Got it. Straight into the enclosure with no decorations. Do I leave the hides in, though? Just no "plants"?

stephanbakir · 03-22-13, 02:30 AM

hides in for sure, just make sure its something that he can hide in, but can still be easily cleaned if hes sick or has mites.

you will most likely need to make your own enclosure for your adult, but honestly I had 2-3 inches of substrate and that might have been more then they need... I'm not a dumeril guy, best wait for someone who is.

**Aaron_S** · 03-22-13, 08:53 AM

A few inches is all they would need. They just like to be covered up in the leaf litter where they come from. It's how they would catch their prey. Their colour and pattern would blend them into the ground so they can snatch unsuspecting food.

TheSuppishOne · 03-22-13, 12:56 PM

I'm confused, though... You said I should use paper towels at first, and that newspaper was fine... I guess I could shred the newspaper to make it able to be burrowed in?

Rogue628 · 03-22-13, 11:53 PM

I wouldn't worry about providing the animal the ability to burrow as soon as you get it. IMO, it's more important for you to do what's in the best interest of making sure the animal is healthy and free of any parasites first. Then give it something borrow in.

But I'm a bit confused. I thought you had decided on a carpet? Are you getting a dumeril now? (I work two jobs and it's hard for me to keep up with every single thread)

TheSuppishOne · 03-23-13, 02:15 AM

Yes. I originally wanted a boa and after following everybody's guidance in a circle, I find myself back to boa. =]

I think it'll be a great match for my wife and me.