TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Introduction 1
- Chapter One: Biological Information 3
- Classification, Origin and Distribution 4
- The Subspecies of Garter Snakes 6
- Size, Life Span, and Physical Appearance 10
- Garter Snake Trivias 12
- Chapter Two: Garter Snakes as Pets 15
- What Makes It a Great Pet 16
- Pros and Cons of Garter Snakes 17
- Snake Licensing 18
- Cost of Owning a Snake 19
- Chapter Three: Purchasing and Selecting a Healthy Breed 21
- Where to Purchase a Garter Snake Breed 22
- How to Spot a Good Garter Snake Breeder 24
- Characteristics of a Healthy Breed 26
- Chapter Four: Habitat Requirements for Garter Snakes 27
- How to Set Up Your Snake’s Enclosure 28
- Regulating Temperature 31
- Chapter Five: Nutrition and Feeding 33
- Nutritional Needs of Garter Snakes 34
- Feeding Conditions and How to Feed Your Garter Snakes 36
- Feeding Amount and Frequency 37
- Chapter Six: Maintenance for Garter Snakes 39
- Spot Cleaning Your Snake’s Enclosure 40
- Husbandry Tips and Guidelines on How to Clean Your Snake’s Enclosure 42
- Illnesses caused by Unsanitary and Unhealthy Living Conditions 44
- Chapter Seven: Dealing and Handling Your Garter Snakes 47
- Dealing With and Taming Your Garter Snake 49
- Taming Your Garter Snake 50
- Chapter Eight: Breeding Your Garter Snakes 55
- Sexual Dimorphism and Behavior 56
- How to Set Up the Right Breeding Conditions 57
- Successful Garter Snake Breeding 59
- The Birthing of Garters 60
- Caring for Newborn and Juvenile Garter Snakes 62
- Life Cycle of a Garter Snake 64
- Chapter Nine: Common Diseases and Treatments for Garter Snakes 67
- Common Minor Problems 68
- Common Major Problems 72
- Other Health Issues 74
- Chapter Ten: Garter Snake Summary 77
- What Makes It a Great Pet 81
- Maintenance for Garter Snakes 84
- Glossary of Snake Terms 89
- Index 97
- Photo Credits 103
- References 105
