Snakes can make great pets; they can be taught to be quite tame and can live up to 20 years! So before you rush out and buy a pet snake, remember it is a long-term commitment that will probably last longer than your son or daughters desire for any pet.

It will help you understand the seriousness of their desire by finding out why they want a snake. Is it because they have seen a character on TV with a snake or a friend has one? If you think it is just a fad that they will grow out of it is probably best that you hold off on buying the snake.

A good way to gauge the reaction of your child to any pet is to take them to play with one. Many specialty pet stores sell snakes or can put you in touch with a snake distributor. Though snakes can be a cool pet to have, they can't play fetch in quite the same way a dog will and this might bore your child into changing their mind.

If your family does not have pet you could suggest buying one that everyone is in favour of. Something tells me that if it came down to a vote the snake would not make it first past the post.

After careful consideration you might choose to welcome a snake into your family. If possible choose a captive bred snake from a reputable dealer. Wild caught snakes tend to be more stressed and more difficult to tame.

It is a good idea to ask for a feeding demonstration, not only to give you the best idea how to feed your new pet but also to check that the snake is prepared to take pre-killed prey and feeding well.

Snakes are tricky creatures and very good at escaping. Make sure that you have an enclosure that they cannot escape from. Even the smallest hole could provide a way out for your new pet.

Whether you choose to indulge you child's desire for a snake as a pet or choose not to, make sure you do plenty or research into your decision.

Your say: Have you kept a snake as a pet? Would you allow your child to get a pet snake?

Related video: The Today Show team speak to a snake whisperer.