Snails are thought to be slimy and disgusting beings, but they can actually make wonderful pets. Taking care of snails is simple, even for children, but not smaller ones as they may accidentally break the snail's shell when they catch it or they may forget to take care of it.
Steps
Step 1. Keep snails in an aquarium or large pet cage with plenty of space
Step 2. Add a base
You can use earth (a 5 cm layer) from your garden as a base, or in pet shops you will find bases such as Bed a Beast, Eco Earth etc. If you use something you don't buy in a specialty store, sterilize it first (even garden soil), placing it in the microwave for a minute to get rid of bacteria etc.
Step 3. Add leaves, sticks and stones to make the snail feel comfortable
Remember to change them often, as they could attract bacteria and disease in the long run.
Step 4. Use a sprayer with fresh or chlorine-free water and humidify the tub once or twice a day
Snails like tubs that are moist but not wet, so don't overdo it.
Step 5. Feed the snail fruit and vegetables
Examples are: various types of lettuce, cucumber, chicory or apples. Try different foods to figure out what your snail's favorite dish is. Some are very demanding. Do not offer him food made for other animals, or dry, salty, or sweet food. Your snail could also survive by eating spaghetti or pieces of cake but it would not be a healthy diet. These foods absorb water, which is dangerous for the snail and will kill it in a short time. A simple rule: food that makes you thirsty is not suitable for snails.
Step 6. Change the soil once a week and remove old bits of food every day
A saucer to put water in is not necessary, but if you want to put it, make sure there is little water and that the snail does not drown in it!
Warnings
- Do not give onions or garlic to any type of snail. For them, these are very toxic foods.
- Never leave the snail in the sun and never cover the holes near its head - they allow the snail to breathe.
- Before taking the snail, always wash your hands! You may have some salt or other substances that are dangerous for them.
- When you take the snail in your hand, do it gently and do not leave it with amphibians, as they may eat it.
- For families with small children, it is not recommended to adopt snails. Or it is recommended to always check children as they could catch diseases or infections such as Angiostrongylus. For more information visit the website:
- https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/angiostrongylus/index.html. Ron Hines DVM PhD
