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Posted by glenn bartley on January 15, 2003 at 08:02:54:
In Reply to: Learning to probe snakes? posted by JoeLansing on January 14, 2003 at 18:21:28:
: How does one learn such an art? There's only one good reptile vet in the area, and 1-2 other people around here that I'd trust to probe a snake. Is it easy? hard? safe? dangeous? I want to learn, but not hurt anything! - Joe
In my opinion:
Probing a snake is not an art. If that is what you think, don't ever probe a snake because use of artistic license may result in quite an injury to the snake. Probing a snake is more a scientific technique, and that technique needs to be followed time and time again.
Probing is not usually difficult when done correctly. Learning how to probe is usually something you need someone else's help with, as it is usualy a two person operation. One of the best places to learn about probing would be at a local herp society, or at a herp show. At either, try to locate a long time snake breeder. They usually can show you how to probe, and after a few attempts you would be able to practice on your own (always remembering to have some else at hand to help hold the snake immobile while you probe). Before you ask someone to show you how to do it, read up on it in a few books about snake breeding. You can also check on-line; someone out there has a short video clip on their site about how to do it - sorry I do not have the link.
As I said, in my opinion, it is usually easy although some species like Ball Pythons can sometimes make it harder. Picking the correct size of probe is often the hardest thing that you have to do. Probe size will vary based upon various determinents such as: species, size of snake being probed, attributes of the individual snake being probed.
As for it being safe or dangerous, I believe it is quite safe when done correctly. Of course, it has the potential to do harm to the snake if you don't do it correctly. For instance if you apply to much pressure with a probe you could damage a male's hemipenes or could push through the pocket in a female causing tissue damage. It is important to use the correct sized probe and to exert only the necessary pressure on the probe. Some people believe Ball Tipped probes are safer. In my opinion, I believe either Ball Tipped or straight probes are fine. A 4 probe set is often sufficient for most of the snakes you would be likely to probe, but I recommend a 6 probe set. In addition to a probe set, you would need lubricant such as K-Y Jell, and disinfectant alcohol (which is about 90% alcohol as opposed to rubbing alcohol which is only about 70% alcohol) to clean the probes before and after use, and a case in which to keep the probes.
Good luck.
Best regards,
Glenn Bartley
