Snakes can be dangerous pets, especially venomous species. If you’re a snake owner, you may have wondered if you can make your snake less dangerous by removing its fangs. This practice, called defanging, is highly controversial in the reptile community.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about defanging snakes.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Yes, it is possible to surgically remove or disable a snake’s fangs, a process called defanging. However, most experts strongly advise against doing this, as it is inhumane and creates serious health risks for the snake.
What Does Defanging Mean?
Defanging is the process of surgically removing a venomous snake’s fangs, which are modified teeth that inject venom. This prevents the snake from being able to inject venom when it bites. There are a couple main ways that snakes are defanged:
Definition of Defanging
The most common defanging method involves using pliers or other tools to physically pull or break off the fangs. This removes the fangs entirely so the snake can no longer inject venom through them. However, this method is controversial as it can be painful for the snake and damage the teeth and gums.
The fangs also often grow back over time and need to be regularly removed again.
Some more humane defanging techniques involve carefully clipping the fangs or sealing the venom ducts. This stops venom injection but leaves the fangs mostly intact. However, these methods may also eventually allow the snake to regrow fangs or unseal ducts and inject venom again after some time.
Differences Between Defanging and Venomoid Surgery
Venomoid surgery is a more complex surgical procedure where the venom glands are completely removed from the snake’s head rather than just the fangs. This permanently prevents venom production and injection. The main differences are:
- Defanging only removes fangs, while venomoid removes glands
- Defanging is temporary as fangs regrow, venomoid is permanent
- Defanging is controversial for welfare, venomoid less so
- Venomoid is more complex surgery requiring specialist veterinary skills
Reasons People Defang Snakes
To reduce danger to humans
The most common reason for defanging venomous snakes is to reduce the danger they pose to humans. Venomous snake bites can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal if antivenom is not administered quickly.
By removing the fangs, snakes are no longer able to inject their venom when they bite, greatly reducing the risk of serious injury or death.
People who keep venomous snakes as pets often choose to defang them to protect themselves, family members, and visitors. Handling and caring for defanged venomous snakes is considered safer than dealing with fully venomous ones.
Some zoos or reptile parks may also defang certain especially dangerous species like cobras or rattlesnakes to allow easier and safer exhibition.
It’s important to note however that even defanged snakes can still bite, and their mouths contain bacteria that can cause infection. Proper handling precautions should always be taken. Overall though, defanging is an effective way to reduce the most serious risks posed by venomous snakes around humans.
To avoid paying for antivenom
Antivenom is an expensive treatment needed to counteract venomous snake bites. A vial of antivenom can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. For certain exotic or rare species, obtaining antivenom in an emergency may be difficult.
Some irresponsible snake owners may choose to defang their venomous pets to avoid the high costs of antivenom treatments in case of bites. Rather than paying these costs themselves, they transfer the health risks entirely to anyone bitten by defanging the snake.
This practice is widely condemned by veterinarians and experts however, who view defanging solely to avoid antivenom costs as unethical and reckless.
Responsible venomous snake keepers will always have antivenom stocked in case of emergency. They also take proper precautions to prevent bites. Defanging to avoid potential expenses shifts all burden to the snake and any possible bite victims.
To transport venomous snakes legally
Many regions have laws restricting or prohibiting the transport of live venomous snakes, due to the public safety risk. However, exceptions are sometimes made for defanged venomous snakes since their bites no longer pose a venom risk.
For example, some states may allow defanged venomous snakes like rattlesnakes or copperheads to be transported and exhibited for educational purposes, whereas transporting intact fully venomous ones is prohibited.
Venomous exotic snakes imported into a country may be required to be defanged before clearing customs.
This allows enthusiasts, educators, researchers, and zoos to legally transport venomous snake species across jurisdictions and geographic barriers. While still potentially dangerous if mishandled, the legal risk is considered lower with defanged snakes.
Proper permits and paperwork are still required in most cases though.
Methods of Defanging Snakes
Surgical fang removal
Surgical fang removal is the process of completely removing a venomous snake’s fangs under anesthesia by a qualified veterinarian. This method fully eliminates the snake’s ability to inject venom when it bites.
However, the surgery causes permanent damage and snakes may have difficulty feeding afterwards. According to the AVMA, while rare, death can occur in some cases.
Fang clipping
Fang clipping involves using clippers or pliers to break off the tips of a venomous snake’s fangs. This removes the pointy portion and venom canal. The snake can regrow clipped fangs over time, so this method may need to be repeated.
Fang clipping reduces the amount of venom injected, but does not fully eliminate envenomation risk. Proper technique is crucial – if done incorrectly, it can fracture teeth or jaw bones.
Capping or sealing fangs
Fang caps are plastic coverings placed over the point of each fang, securing them in place with dental cement. This blocks venom flow but allows the snake to retain fangs for normal feeding. However, caps may fall off over time and require replacement.
An alternative is sealing fangs closed with non-toxic silicone. Sealing is longer-lasting but can interfere with feeding if applied incorrectly.
While some snake owners or herpetoculturists may attempt do-it-yourself methods, surgical defanging procedures should only be performed by licensed veterinarians trained in exotic animal dentistry and anesthesia administration.
Attempting these techniques without proper qualifications and experience puts the animal at grave risk of injury or death.
Risks and Consequences of Defanging
Pain and infection risks
Defanging, which is the removal of a venomous snake’s fangs, exposes the snake to significant pain and potential infection. When the fangs are removed, this severs nerves and blood vessels which is very traumatic.
Furthermore, the open tooth sockets left behind have a high risk of developing infections which can spread to other areas. These infections can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Impaired hunting ability and feeding problems
Without fangs and venom, defanged snakes can no longer effectively immobilize and kill prey. This leaves them unable to properly feed themselves in the wild. Even in captivity, defanged snakes may have difficulty grasping, swallowing, and digesting food items.
Malnourishment and starvation are very real threats for defanged snakes that cannot secure an adequate food supply.
Some additional feeding and nutrition problems defanged snakes may face include:
- Inability to grab and consume natural prey items like rodents or other small animals
- Regurgitation of improperly killed or swallowed food
- Aspiration pneumonia due to food particles entering the lungs
- Intestinal obstructions or blockages
Increased risk of mouth rot and other issues
The open tooth sockets and oral trauma caused by fang removal also raise the risk of mouth rot and dental infections. Mouth rot is a severe condition that destroys soft mouth tissues and can disfigure the jawbone if left untreated. Other oral health issues defanging may contribute to include:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Abnormal bone growth in the mouth
- Oral abscesses
All of these conditions can negatively impact the snake’s health and quality of life if proper veterinary care is not provided.
Expert Opinions on Defanging Snakes
Strong opposition from herpetologists
Many reputable herpetologists strongly advise against defanging snakes. Defanging, also known as venomoid surgery, involves surgically removing a snake’s venom glands or sealing the ducts that secrete venom.
While this may seem like it reduces the danger posed by venomous snakes, most experts argue it causes more harm than good.
According to a survey by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), 93% of accredited zoos oppose defanging venomous snakes. The AZA states that defanging compromises animal welfare and thwarts conservation efforts by enabling inexperienced individuals to keep venomous snakes as pets.
Additionally, the AZA’s white paper highlights how defanging surgery often causes chronic health problems in snakes.
Many individual herpetologists, such as Dr. Tom Crutchfield and Dr. Scott Servais, have spoken out strongly against defanging. They argue the surgery is inhumane, medically unnecessary, and gives snake owners a false sense of security since defanged snakes can still bite and cause injury.
Concerns from animal welfare groups
Prominent animal welfare organizations like PETA and the Humane Society oppose defanging venomous snakes. They argue it inflicts unnecessary suffering and compromises snakes’ quality of life. The Humane Society calls defanging “maiming” and states it “not only causes pain and distress, but also leaves snakes defenseless.”
These groups say there are humane alternatives to defanging, like using snake hooks and enclosures that allow snakes to feel secure. They urge prospective snake owners to carefully research species’ needs and only obtain snakes they can properly care for without defanging.
Responsible ownership and an understanding of snakes’ body language are key to safety.
Varying regulations around the world
Laws and regulations related to defanging venomous snakes vary worldwide. In the United States, there are no federal laws prohibiting or regulating the practice. Some states, such as Texas and Kentucky, have banned defanging while others, like Florida and Pennsylvania, require permits for venomoid surgery.
Here are defanging regulations in some other countries:
- Banned in the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa
- Legal with restrictions in Canada and parts of Europe
- No regulations in Mexico, China, and Japan
Some herpetological societies and experts have lobbied for national or international bans on defanging, but currently regulations remain inconsistent. Clearer laws informed by scientific evidence on defanging’s impacts could help address concerns about the practice on conservation and animal welfare grounds.
Alternatives to Defanging Venomous Snakes
Proper enclosures and handling precautions
When keeping venomous snakes, proper enclosures and handling precautions are critical to ensure safety for both the keeper and the animal (https://reptilesmagazine.com/venomous-snake-safety-tips/). Secure cages with adequate ventilation, appropriate substrates, and hides are essential, as stress from improper housing can increase defensive behaviors.
Handlers should have extensive training in reading snake body language and using necessary tools like hooks and tubes before attempts at manipulation. With correct knowledge and equipment, even highly venomous species can be kept and enjoyed safely.
Venomoid surgery as a last resort
Venomoid surgery removes the venom glands of snakes but is controversial in the herpetoculture community. While it can reduce the risks of medically significant bites, the procedure also removes the snake’s evolutionary defenses and may impact natural behaviors.
Venomoid surgery only should be considered for experienced keepers managing snakes unsuitable as pets. The stress of surgery and life-long special care requirements also must be accounted for. Ultimately, selecting compatible species and focusing on proper protocols minimize reliance on this serious last resort.
Avoiding venomous species if unsure
With over 700 species of venomous snakes worldwide, no keeper can reasonably gain enough experience with more than a fraction safely. Selectiveness and specialization is key. Avoid impulse purchases of venomous snakes, and heavily research the needs of any candidates in consideration.
Bites from inappropriately housed neurotoxic elapids or hemotoxic vipers can quickly become medical emergencies requiring prompt, specialized care. Beginners should focus on non-venomous colubrids and mild-tempered pit vipers, only progressing to more challenging species after years of demonstrated expertise in meeting husbandry requirements and reading snake behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Defanging
Is defanging legal where I live?
The laws surrounding defanging snakes vary greatly depending on where you live. In the United States, there are no federal laws prohibiting or regulating the practice, so it is up to each individual state to determine the legality of defanging.
Some states like Florida and Texas have banned the practice entirely, while others like California and New York require permits or licenses from veterinarians. Many states have no laws at all. The best practice is to thoroughly research your local and state laws before considering defanging a snake.
When in doubt, consult an experienced reptile veterinarian to ensure you stay on the right side of the law.
Does defanging hurt snakes?
Yes, the process of removing a snake’s fangs is undoubtedly painful and traumatic for the animal. Snakes use their fangs to kill prey and defend themselves, so defanging leaves them unable to perform these basic functions.
The fangs are also connected to the venom gland, so removing them damages this delicate structure as well. Most experts believe defanging causes significant pain and long-term stress for snakes. After being defanged, snakes may have difficulty eating properly due to the missing fangs and damaged mouth tissues.
The snakes require extra care and monitoring after the procedure too. For these reasons, many veterinarians and animal welfare groups actively discourage the practice of defanging except in special medical circumstances.
Can snakes regrow fangs?
Snakes are not able to regrow the fangs that have been removed through defanging. Unlike sharks that regrow lost teeth continually, snakes have a set number of fangs that do not regenerate if pulled out. However, some snake species do have a reserve set of fangs located behind their primary fangs.
For example, vipers and rattlesnakes have these backup fangs that may move forward after the initial set is lost or removed. The replacement fangs are usually not as robust or effective as the original ones though.
Ultimately, while a snake may regenerate fangs from their reserve stock, they cannot regrow fangs that have been fully removed through defanging procedures.
Is a defanged snake safe to handle?
While the risk of being bitten is reduced, defanged snakes can still be dangerous to humans. First, even without fangs the snake can still bite and cause other injuries like scratches or puncture wounds from their other teeth.
Second, some venomous snakes like cobras may retain the ability to inject venom even without fangs. And finally, the stress of being defanged can make some snakes more aggressive or unpredictable in their behavior.
For these reasons, proper handling precautions should still be taken around defanged venomous snakes. Children and inexperienced handlers should avoid contact, and even experts should use hooks and restraints when maintaining defanged snakes.
Ultimately, the safest and most humane option is to avoid defanging altogether.
Conclusion
While it is technically possible to defang venomous snakes, most experts strongly advise against this practice on ethical and medical grounds. There are many humane alternatives to defanging that can reduce the risks of owning venomous reptiles.
If you have any concerns about the safety of your venomous pets, consult an experienced herpetologist for advice on proper care and handling techniques. With the right precautions, you can safely keep aggressive snake species without resorting to defanging.
