Thanks to PETA, Colorado snakes in captivity are about to live much more comfortably

Have you ever slept in a bed that was too short for you? Having to curl up to fit the whole night is one of the more uncomfortable things you can experience. Now imagine being a snake that’s shoved into a cage that’s too small and having to curl up forever…

Following a major effort from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and other animal allies, new rules will take effect on July 15 that require snakes in the pet trade to be housed in enclosures large enough to enable them to fully extend their bodies.

The deadline for licensees to come into compliance with this new requirement is January 1, 2027. The Colorado Department of Agriculture proposed the updates to the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA) regulations after PETA and the Colorado Reptile Humane Society jointly submitted a petition to the department. Along with the Animal Law Program at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, the groups also submitted formal comments in support of a rule that provides snakes at least enough space to stretch fully, citing scientific studies showing that snakes need space to be healthy.

“Snakes suffer just as much as any cat or dog would when crammed into a tiny glass box or a dark drawer where they can’t stretch out or engage in natural behaviors,” says PETA General Counsel Lori Kettler. “PETA applauds Colorado for taking this important step to help captive snakes live happier, healthier lives and urges other states to follow its lead.”