Sorry for the shameless plug, but I just realized that I never posted on Fauna since the book came out in April and since there are quite a few folks here looking into venomous consistently, I felt it was warranted.
So far, it has been doing great and has been very well received. Several hundred copies in 7 countries that I am aware of. It has been officially endorsed by the Miami Dade Antivenom Unit.
There are actually two versions of the book. The original is full color. But because color publishing is
very expensive, I created a more affordable black and white version. Same content, just no color on the interior.
147 pages
76 photographs
Table of Contents:
Disclaimer
1 Introduction
2 Considerations for Venomous Herpetoculture
3 Housing
4 Tools and Equipment
5 Handling, Maneuvering, & Restraining
6 Transportation
7 Common Mistakes
8 Tips and Tricks
9 Venom, Envenomation, & Antivenin
10 Emergency Agencies
11 U.S. Federal and State Agencies
12 Recommended Resources and Reading
Bibliography
These are the quotes directly from members of the Miami Dade Antivenom Unit:
"This is the perfect book for the experienced non-venomous keeper who is looking to keep venomous."
"This is as well an informative book with a very thorough, well though out reference for the venomous keeper."
"This is a must have addition to any Reptile Library with excellent illustrations that's easy to read and hard to put down."
And a few other reviews:
"Venomous Snakes In Captivity, is a must have for all keepers venomous and non-venomous alike! It points out safety protocols and husbandry aids as well as proper herp room management. Very well written and high quality pictures. This is a book that should be in every herpetoculturist's library."
Scott Bice
"If it were up to me, you could not obtain a venomous permit without reading the book. "Venomous Snakes in Captivity" should be a part of every hot keeper's library." Ray Hunter
"This is one book that will most likely become a staple read for anyone who keeps any type of snake--not just venomous ones. No matter who you are or where you are at on your journey, this publication is a valuable--and in my opinion---a necessary, step. "
Nicole - New Jersey
"an ideal book for a beginner as well as the more experienced keeper, its all so fresh, it makes a nice change from seeing the same old tired photo's etc that you get in some books, and the information is all there, its a book that the hobby is crying out for .............. this book is worth every penny! " Wendy - United Kingdom
The only semi-negative response I have gotten was from Ray Hoser and his only comment was that there was too much emphasis on the dangerous aspect of venomous snakes. But as he is in Australia, he concedes that it is a different culture. Here in the States, you can go to some herp shows and buy venomous, often without a permit. So I felt it was necessary to not downplay the animals' potential.
I would like to hear from those that have read it on ways that it may be improved for the future (aside from a few typos
)