Anchorage, AK – In an unusual turn of events, Anchorage Animal Care and Control (AACC) found a loving home for a stray snake named Whey just one hour after posting his adoption profile online. The milk snake quickly captivated the community with his docile nature and impressive personality, proving that even reptiles can inspire widespread interest and compassion.
Whey, described by AACC as a ‘handsome man’ with a friendly demeanor, arrived as a stray in early September. While the Alaskan wilderness isn’t home to wild snakes like Whey, this non-venomous reptile appeared domesticated and comfortable with human handling, sparking curiosity and swift action among local animal lovers.
An Unlikely Arrival at Anchorage Animal Care and Control
The story began when an Anchorage resident noticed Whey slithering near their mailbox and immediately contacted AACC for assistance. According to Joel Jorgensen, the AACC community outreach manager, the snake was safely collected and brought to the shelter.
“It was definitely a domestic animal, not a wild Alaskan snake … that we don’t have,” Jorgensen told KTUU. “Whey was easy to handle and feed, and his personality really impressed us.”
AACC held onto Whey briefly, hoping an owner would come forward, but with no claims made, they decided to find him a new home.
Rapid Interest and Adoption Following Social Media Post
Recognizing that snakes are uncommon at the shelter, AACC officials were unsure how the public would respond when Whey’s adoption post went live on September 9. The post featured several photos of Whey draped comfortably over an arm and highlighted his friendly and manageable nature, appealing to snake enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
- Whey is a milk snake, a species known for being non-venomous and generally docile.
- The post emphasized that Whey was easy to handle and feed.
- Interest surged quickly following the Facebook post, with numerous adoption applications submitted.
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Remarkably, Whey found a new home within just one hour of the adoption announcement. Jorgensen expressed delight at the swift adoption, stating:
“It was very quick, which we were always happy to see, no matter whether it’s a snake or any other animal we get in the shelter.”
What This Means for Unusual Shelter Animals
Whey’s story casts light on the growing appreciation for less traditional companion animals, highlighting the community’s willingness to embrace reptiles as pets. The rapid adoption reflects not only Whey’s appealing personality but also the power of social media in connecting animals with prospective adopters quickly.
AACC’s experience with Whey could encourage shelters to consider expanding their awareness and services for a wider variety of animals, potentially increasing adoption rates for all species.
For more detailed coverage, visit the original story on People.com.
Share Your Thoughts
What do you think about Whey’s rapid adoption? Have you ever considered adopting a reptile or other unconventional pet? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!