There are many different types of snakes that people keep as pets. These include garter snakes, Burmese pythons, boa constrictors, king snakes, and ball pythons. We will discuss the ball python here, as it is the most common snake kept as a pet. Snakes sold as pets are usually easy to handle and friendly.. Baby ball pythons are about 1 foot long and will grow to 3 feet long by their third birthday. Adult ball pythons can reach 5 – 6 feet in length. With good care, ball pythons can live for 10 – 20 years. Special considerations for owning a snake You should purchase a young captive bred snake. It is more likely to be healthy, more resistant to stress, and less aggressive than older imported snakes. Choose a snake that looks healthy and alert. Do not worry if your new friend does not eat for a few weeks after you bring him home. Moving places a large amount of stress on snakes. Snakes only have one lung that runs the entire length of their body. This makes them very susceptible to respiratory infections. Make sure that your snake’s enclosure is big enough for your snake to not rub up against himself and his waste. This will reduce the risk of infection. You will also need special lighting equipment to allow your snake to bask. He should have different areas in his enclosure to bask and then to cool off. You will also want to provide him with toys, furniture, and decorations that simulate his natural environment. Health care for snakes Bring your snake in for a check up within 2 days of his arrival.. Your snake does not need any vaccines, but should have a routine check up every year to assess his health and to test for parasites.