Does anyone know of a small breed of snake that can be bought from a pet shop?
Hate to be a nitpicker, but you aren’t talking about ‘breeds’ of snake, you’re talking about species. The most readily available snake, suitable for your experience is the corn snake (Elaphe guttata/ pantherophs guttatus). They can grow up to 6 feet long, but usually they are between 4 and 5 feet long. This is small, really, and when curled up you can just about hold one in one hand. As babies they are minute and you don’t even need to buy a vivarium at first if you can’t afford it all at once. A plastic tub of a a suitable size is fine, with air holes bored into it (small ones obviously), and a small heat mat under one end which needs to heat the tank to about 85F at that end. Make sure the tub is secure but do not use tape, as small snakes will injure and scar themselves when (not if) they become stuck to it. You’ll need a temperature dial, and a humidity dial may also be useful, especially during the time when they are shedding, as extra moisture is necessary and it helps if you can
