I am leaving July 23rd and won’t be back until August 4th. I have three snakes that are on pinkies every 6 days. Originally, the plan was to feed them today and the day before I leave, but due to a death in the family my flights have been moved to an earlier day. So, that final feeding before I leave would go from one day early - day 5 - to day 3 after their last meal. I am a bit worried that would be to soon after their feeding today. So I don’t know if I should:
a.) feed them today and the day before I leave like originally planned (three days after today’s meal)
b.) feed them today and wait until I get home to feed them again
c.) delay today’s feeding until the day before I leave
In an ideal world I would have someone that could feed them while I am gone, but no one I know is interested enough in snakes for me to comfortably leave them in someone else’s care. I have someone taking care of my dogs, but they will essentially leave the snakes alone unless their is an emergency.
This is what I would do most definitely. So you can feed on the 22nd of July. By the time you get back they they will be ready to eat again. They will be just fine!
I would feed a bit sooner personally.
If they’re really good established feeders there’s usually no issues, but I worry about regurge regardless of how good they are. There may not be enough time for a good check before you leave the day of. The last thing I want is a rotting meal with that poor snake while I’m gone.
2-3 days before is usually my habit. Unless they’re very young a temporary fast isn’t a big deal as long as there’s enough water.
I’m of a similar mind as @armiyana on this, I like to be sure everyone is digesting well before I leave. Even little ones eating pinkies can go long periods without food and be just fine. My condolences on the loss of your family member, and safe travels!
I would also feed early enough that they can suggest before you leave. I would also give them an extra water dish or even two. That way if they do something wretched like poop in a water dish they will still have clean water.
Thank you for the help and condolences everyone. I think I’ll feed them tomorrow, which will give them Tuesday and Wednesday to digest before I leave. I don’t know if I have enough backup water dishes to give everyone a second one (something I’ve wanted backups for already but just haven’t got around to buying) but I think I have enough to give a second one to the snakes that have a history of tampering with their water. Thanks for the suggestion, I wouldn’t have thought of that at all.
Just a thought on the backup washer dishes. If a dish is safe for humans or other pets, it’s safe for your snakes. You can use things like small jars from yogurt, pickles, etc. as well as little cereal bowls, ramekins, cat or dog dishes. If you don’t already have extras, These are usually easy to find and can be inexpensive at a dollar store. Just be sure that what you choose either has a wide base or is securely wedged in so that the snake can’t tip it over.
I travel a lot and im managing a large collection (100+) and what i do for many years is not to feed at all at least one week up to two weeks before travel. Babys included. This is the way to minimize poo and other organics that would be left until my return
