Snakes World

Haven't actually decided to get one yet, though I would like to. Most of the places I have found though aren't quite what I'm looking for. I'd like a small snake, even tiny, and one that isn't going to be hazardous to very small dogs. I was actually looking at Texas Brown snakes, but how would one go about getting one as a pet? Are they worth it? Almost everyone I've talked with keeps reccomending constrictors, and I don't want to risk that.

Research material, places to look for them, any information is greatly appreciated.
I've actually seen the ribbon snakes a few times, just couldn't remember the names of them, so thank you for that.

As to constrictors, both that, as well as I have a hard time with mice. A bit of a childhood trauma, you could say… It'd probably starve to death because I can't watch mice die. Frogs, insects, small pests, those much I can handle feeding it…

Thanks for the info, though more is still appreciated.

The following reply is by : Tryniti at Twilight :
You could try for some sort of small corn snake, but as a first timer, I always recommend ball pythons. They are by far the friendliest, easiest to tame and handle, and don't get much longer than 4 feet.
You should be able to find books on them and many other kinds of snakes at most pet stores, just go into the reptile section and pick up a book.

ADD: I can't handle feeding live mice to my snake either, that's why we buy frozen mice that have already been killed and were bred for the purpose of being fed to snakes.