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RE: Venomoids
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by Charper on November 24, 2000
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"Venomoids" are snakes that have either had their venom glands completely removed or the ducts that come from the venom glands cauterized. There are very few veterinarians that will perform this procedure in the U.S.
However, you should know that the snake is still not considered completely safe and - may - somehow inject venom. Some venomoid keepers periodically check their venomoids by allowing them to strike a mouse to see if it shows signs of envenomation. [ Of course the mouse may die from having a fang pierce a blood vessel as well. ]
Also, venomoids are considered a taboo subject among many people within the venomous herpetology community. This is because of 2 things:
#1. Surgically altering a venomous snake to keep it in captivity is an indication that an individual is not ready to keep it anyway. Should the snake somehow regenerate it's ability to produce and inject venom, the individual would be ill prepared to properly handle the snake or treat an envenomation.
#2. Keeping a snake that has been surgically rendered "harmless" is generally associated with individuals who want to **show off to family and friends - their amazing ability to handle deadly animals ( note sarcasm here ). Handling venomous snakes as if they were non-venomous sends a conflicting signal, and I don't just mean to children. Most adults in the United States ( and elsewhere ) know very little about snakes and may try to handle a dangerous species as a result of viewing someone handle a "venomoid". Also keep in mind that if venomoid snakes reproduce, their young will be fully venomous.
**This may not be your case. I know of a few individuals that keep both venomous and venomoid animals that are considered responsible keepers. They don't advertise to everyone that they have these animals however. Also, there are a few institutions that keep venomoid animals - some zoos and museums.
Officially though, this organization - the SHHS, frowns on venomoids. It's a polarizing issue within the venomous community and this organization seeks to unite all venomous keepers. There's just too much controvery surrounding them.
"A house divided will fall."
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Excellent assessment Chris.
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by Jaffo on December 1, 2000
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That is probably the most informative, accurate and well-rounded reply to the venomoid inquirey that I have read. Gotta save this and use it as a form response. :)
Guess that's why you're the man.
Later.
Jaffo
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RE: Venomoids
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by Vanyul on December 5, 2000
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Kudos Chaper! Awesome explanation! One other quick note on this subject, though:
When dealing with venomoids, it is always best to use the gun rule ("The gun is always loaded"). Even if it is venomoid, ALWAYS assume that the animal is hot!! They have been known to regrow glands or grow duct bypasses. This is usually only found out, after a careless keeper trying to show off to his friends gets nailed, only to find that the animal has regrown.
Just remember the gun rule and that 90% of all accidental shootings occur with an "empty" gun. Apply this to all venomoid animals, use proper "hot" handling technique, and you should stay safe.
Happy Herpin'
Vanyul
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RE: Venomoids
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by crazyfox on March 8, 2002
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I am a very avid python and boa breeder. I am wanting to expand into a few of the "hotter" areas. I would like to know where I could send a snake to have it undergo this process of de-venomization. I did read that this may be frowned on. But I feel if I get some info on a reputable surgeon then this will minimize subjecting the snake to danger. Also I do not intend to use this as a testosterone booster to show off. I want to do it this way to get more used to the way that venomous snakes behave and move. When dealing with pythons and boa as long as I have you know when they will strike. You know how fast the snakes are. I plan to have this done to an Albino Monacled Cobra, or a gaboon viper. I only want to have this done to one snake. I do feel they should remain as a whole from the wild. Please help me in my venture. All respect to those who brave this venture....
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