Pets of the Month

the snake’s life. Snakes are lower maintenance than dogs or cats, but they are not maintenance-free. They require medical care just like any pet and may need to see a vet who specializes in reptiles. Moreover, snakes can live as long as 20 years.

Complying with ordinances and regulations that pertain to keeping snakes. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, and can typically be found on the jurisdiction’s website. Owners should be sure to check state, county, city, and even apartment building rules.

Once a prospective snake owner understands what is involved with keeping a snake and is prepared to welcome one home, it’s time to choose the species. Experienced reptile keepers recommend corn snakes, milk snakes, and king snakes, which are easily raised in captivity and have the reputation of being calm and gentle. A more experienced owner might want to choose one of the tropical constrictors. Experts recommend the ball python, which doesn’t get too large and tends to be fairly placid. Large constrictors, like the reticulated python and Burmese python, which can grow up to 20 feet long and 200 pounds, are dangerous and make poor pets. Their size and temperament can become too much to handle, and irresponsible owners have released these nonnative snakes into the wild, where they have devastating, disruptive effects on the ecosystem.

Pet snakes are best acquired from knowledgeable, reputable breeders, frequently at reptile shows. Animals raised in captivity are likely to be healthier and live longer than those in the wild. While the Commonwealth of Virginia allows residents to catch and keep certain native snakes, there are distinct downsides to doing this: you could put yourself and the snake at risk of injury; a wild snake is more likely to have health problems and parasites; and capturing it would remove an important component of the ecosystem. Jane Koska is an animal lover who appreciates all creatures, from ants to whales, although she’s a little creeped out by hyenas and is still looking for something good to say about cockroaches. She lives in Washington, DC, with two adorably fluffy young cats.

Bath & Primp • Nail Trim & le • Full Haircut Deshed • Theraclean Treatment • Teeth Brushing Hair Coloring • Exotic Grooming Gianna Schjang, Gabriella Brown • Paw Spa LLC 315 South Washington Street, Alexandria 22314 703-517-4428 • www.thepawspava.com Love. Brush. Groom. Repeat.

PETS

OF THE MONTH

4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774 alexandriaanimals.org Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

JESSIE

Adult, Female, Brown Rabbit

Hi there! My name is Jessie, and I am a cute little female bunny who really wants to find a home of my own. I love being around people and am not shy at all. If you pet me, I will be your friend forever! I am very soft and cuddly and even come with a built-in lucky rabbit’s foot. And you will never have to worry about me making too much noise -- a big benefit to adopting a rabbit! So schedule an appointment today to come and see me. You will be glad you did! Jessie’s Photo courtesy of Dirty Paw Photography

RIZZO

Adult, Male, Gray and White Domestic Short Hair

Looking for a spunky little cat who will keep you entertained for hours? Well look no further! My name is Rizzo, and I am an adorable gray and white two year old kitty who is looking for a loving person or family to spend my life with. As I am still young of course I like to play with toys, but what I like even better is playing with my person. Once you start to pet me I will roll over on my back and grab you with my little paws -- it is actually quite cute! You will frequently see my paw playfully peeking out of my kennel trying to get the attention of anyone passing by. I am also a big talker -- I give a big meow to everyone who walks by. So make an appointment to come see me today. I think you will find me quite entertaining!

BEN

Adult, Male, Black and White Terrier Mix

Meet Ben! Ben is 1 year old, and while we do not know anything about Ben’s past, we have learned he is friendly, energetic and smart! Ben loves toys and treats and would love to show you how well he knows “Sit.” Ben wants nothing more than to find a family to hike, play, learn new tricks with and even relax and watch Netflix before bed! Is the pup for you?

Adopt by appointment at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment at AlexandriaAnimals.org/ Adopt-By-Appointment.