Keeping snakes whose venom is dangerous to humans is inadvisable for a number of reasons, not least of which is that it is illegal in most states. The main reason, however, is that most people keeping such animals are unaware of just how dangerous it can be. Even experienced herpetologists working in wildlife parks and zoos have been taken by surprise by unexpected behaviour from dangerous snakes, and required hospitalisation. Even less advisable is keeping exotic dangerous snakes. This is because antivenoms for these species are only kept in a few locations around the country.
Those who appreciate snakes as pets and who are genuinely interested in the animal itself are likely to be just as content with the more harmless species, such as pythons. Others may want to keep dangerous snakes for the very reason that they are dangerous, perhaps to show off to their friends with the hope of impressing them. Such people would be better advised to reconsider their reasons and perhaps seek alternative ways to impress others.
For those who do insist on keeping dangeroous species, caution must be advised. It is invariably the case, even with people who are familiar with handling snakes, that they only get bitten when they relax their vigilance, or overlook a safety precaution. Naturally, the container for housing the snake must be completely secure and maintained as such. Snakes are remarkable for their ability to escape from captivity, and the danger presented by an escaped venomous snake would be considerable, not only to the owner but neighbours and pets also.
If bitten by an illegally-held dangerous snake, do not make the mistake of trying to "ride out" the clinical effects, from fear of prosecution. That is how fatalities have occurred, because when the patient eventually does present at hospital, the venom has had a significant effect. Privacy laws ensure that details of a person presenting to hospital are kept confidential.
Last updated: October 2007
