Chinese Year of the Snake makes pet snakes trendy among the young

As Chinese Year of the Snake draws near, pet snakes are becoming the new trendy pets. More and more people are visiting pet stores to check out pet snakes, hoping that pet snakes can bring good luck to them, according to Chinanews.com.

As the Chinese saying goes, "touching a snake's head brings good fortune," everyone hopes to embrace good luck, said Chong Chong (pseudonym), the owner of a pet snake store in Xi'an, capital city of Northwest China's Shaanxi Province, highlighting the growing interest in her shop.

"I mainly sell snakes that are suitable for beginners, such as king snakes, corn snakes, and hognose snakes. The prices vary based on the snake's patterns and quality," said Chong. Her inventory primarily consists of medium to small-sized snakes, with prices ranging from a few hundred to over ten thousand yuan (ranging from $13.74 to $1,375), many of which are already reserved by customers.

"Buying red-colored snakes during the Chinese New Year will enhance the festive atmosphere. Pet snakes are also low-maintenance, visually appealing, and cost-effective, making them very suitable as pets,” said Chong.

Chong said that the currently popular pet snakes are compact in size and known for their gentle temperaments, making them safe pets. "If visitors are bitten by a pet snake, there's no need to panic, just rinse the wound with clean water," Chong said.

Whenever customers come to visit or purchase, Chong always provides information on pet snake care to discourage impulsive purchases that could result in abandonment.

As a snake-keeping enthusiast, Chong's wish is to see pet snakes accepted by more people. Before the Year of the Snake, the bustling activity in her store gives her confidence that this wish will come true.