A snake that was once abandoned and has been nursed back to health by a nearby animal hospital is up for adoption.
Central Veterinary Associates, P.C. has announced that a snake that was placed in its care after being found neglected in Queens late last year has recovered and is available for adoption.
On November 21, police officers from the 105th Precinct found a 16-pound Columbian red-tailed boa constrictor that was deserted in Springfield Park in Rosedale. The veterinarians at Central Veterinary Associates took in the reptile two days later and nursed it back to health within approximately three months. The hospital is now looking for a new owner to take care of the snake.
“We are glad to see that the snake has made a full recovery,” said Dr. Steven Fox, chief executive officer and president, Central Veterinary Associates. “I would like to thank our wonderful veterinarians and staff at Central Veterinary Associates, including Dr. John Charos, our director of Avian and Exotics Medicine, for providing the care needed to make this reptile healthy again.”
Eric Kikel, a 23-year-old snake breeder and expert in Glendale, said that most people think they know what kind of pet a snake is when they actually do not. According to Kikel, many people come to him with “preconceived notions” about having snakes in their homes.
“Snakes make excellent pets and they are very rewarding. Contrary to common belief, snakes are not slimy and aggressive. Most of them are very calm and enjoy being handled,” Kikel said.
The expert also said that snakes are very easy and inexpensive to care for.
“They only need to be fed once a week. They do not smell at all, and of course they do not bark or need to be walked frequently throughout the day like a dog would, for example. Also, you could go away on vacation for days or weeks and as long as you leave a large enough water bowl for them to drink water, they will be fine. A snake can last weeks, even months without food,” Kikel said.
There is no official price for the adoption of the boa constrictor. For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-888-4CVA-PET (428-2738) or visit www.centralvets.com.
Central Veterinary Associates, P.C. is a 24-hour, full-service hospital that provides optimal small animal medicine, including exotic medicine. The main hospital is located in Valley Stream, which provides 24-hour care at its state-of-the-art facility. Central Veterinary Associates also has other locations in Great Neck, Bayside, Forest Hills, Far Rockaway and Belle Harbor.
