new BP, a little worried.

[Sammie669]

I just got my first ball python today after researching for a year.
I have the husbandry down, its the snakes appearance that worries me.
The guy I bought him from said he was close to a shed, or going into a shed.
The snake, I've named Romeo, has a few small whitish dry spots on his back. I was wondering if thats something to do with shedding or a bigger problem?
anything I can do?

[OhhWatALoser]

pics would help but most likly shed pieces stuck, they will get them off themselves or you might be able to peel them off, if not they will be gone with the next shed. no need to worry

[seeya205]

If it left over pieces from a shed or he is about to shed(signs-pink belly and cloudy eyes)then you can soak him in warm water for about an half hour a day until they come off. One good soak should get it going! Can't really say for sure unless we see pics!

[Sammie669]

now that Im looking at it.. it looks like he has already shed and this is what was left on him. just some dry patches.

I was also wondering if, while Im setting up his new tank, that two heat pads will work for keeping him warm enough? Im using a CHE and a heating pad for his new home but will two heat pads be enough for now? or should I just use one?

[blackcrystal22]

How big is the enclosure?
One heat pad should be fine if the enclosure is properly sized. However, what are you using to regulate the heat pad? If nothing, then you HAVE GOT to get some sort of thermostat to keep the temperature down. UTHs get far too hot for snakes unregulated.
That's just a little stuck shed. You can soak him in some tepid-warm water for about 30 minutes and see if they'll peel off if you rub them lightly.

I don't recommend temperature or humidity gauges.. get thermometers or a hygrometer that are digital and the thermometers should have probes on them.

Also, the cereal box is fine for a temporary hide, but it will quickly get dirty and musty and possibly collect mold. I recommend getting something more permanent. http://www.reptilebasics.com/Hide-Boxes-p-1-c-282.html

[Toronto Python Gurus]

I was also wondering if, while Im setting up his new tank, that two heat pads will work for keeping him warm enough? Im using a CHE and a heating pad for his new home but will two heat pads be enough for now? or should I just use one?

1 Heat pad is definately enough unless it is a small heat pad and a large tank. The heat pad should cover 1/3 of the bottom of the tank

[trott]

just one uth and control it. tight hides and pick up a temp gun. It will be your best friend.