Perfect Imperfection

[Catherine]

Jake Krinkle Snake is a classic example of an "imperfect" pet.  He has done well and even thrived in spite of his damaged spine. I have made him  comfortable and happy, but I can't fix him. I always joke that when I put Jake on the floor 30 minutes later he will have crawled to the other side of the room. Sadly it is true. His movements are slow and not well coordinated. 

Jake has  done well because I am experienced enough to work with him. When I got him he couldn't poop without help and he couldn't shed. Now all I have to do is help him when he is shedding. He is used to it and he works with me. 

The young man who had Jake did the right thing to give him up. Jake was his first snake and he tried for 18 months, but he had trouble even feeding him. He took a healthy snake and I took Jake. I have been able to improve Jake's health by just knowing what snakes need and being aware of how Jake is different. It is hard to believe, but Jake is around ten years old and he has been with me 8 years this month.

It is not okay to give up on imperfect pets. They deserve happy lives too. It is okay to give up a pet when you can't provide the right care. Imperfect pets are not for everyone, but they are worth every moment of extra care they need.




Jake is pretty close to four feet long and if his spine were straight he might even be almost 5 feet. That is a very good length for a corn snake.


Catherine Becket • Public