Years back I purchased #9 shot for snakes. It would work but there is no reason not to just buy #4 shot and use it for small game and snakes. #4 shot will turn snakes into a mist. It would also jack up a charging dog. Federal 000buck designed for the shot pistol will impress you how tight and accurate all 4 rounds hit at 10 yards. It would also make a good hunting round for mid size game in a survival situation.