Got a question re. "HOTS" (snakes) at shows

[ChrisNCT]

I have a question regarding HOTS such as those found at the Hamburg, PA show. I will be attending the show this or July (whenever it is) and would like to know one thing?

Since I am bringing my wife/ kids some things worry me. How does this show sell these types of reptiles? Do the people have permits or something that by these things?

Here's my concerns...lets say some "guy" thinks its cool a cool rattler and decides to buy one and decides to take it outside and let it out of the container in the lot for a better view of the reptile and it gets away.

What prevents any ordinary "joe" from buying one of these at the shows? Are they regulated via type of license or permit?

 

[Lasiodora]

I don't know what the specific regulations are in PA but I know you don't have to present a permit at the show to buy venomous animals. I went to last years show with my wife (7 months pregnant at the time). I didn't see anyone walking around with their king cobra wrapped around their neck (inside or outside of the show). It was a cool show. I wouldn't recommend the show if you are going to be walking around the show worrying about something getting loose.
Mike

 

[Ravnos]

Most hot shows have very strict rules about no uncontained animals, and won't sell to anyone under 18. Often they also make the vendor escort you to the door after you buy so people aren't just walking around with deli cups full of hot snakes. (You know, I generally like more protection from a hot snake than the protection I get from my dinner leftovers.) What happens out in the parking lot... well, that is sort of out of their control, but I would hope that people want to continue to be able to aquire these animals, and wouldn't do anything stupid. I'm not aware of PA's laws, but the hot show in Daytona requires FL state permits. The hot show in San Antonio, TX doesn't require any permits.

Rav