When to step in? (Part II)

Last week I posted about a situation with a severely neglecting snake that a friend of a friend has. This situation has taken a nasty turn for the worse, so I started a fresh thread to get some fresh feedback. (If this gets merged with the other thread I won't be offended ;))

My friend G called me today to give me an update on this snake. Apparently the snake wasn't moved to another house, but had escaped and has no been found. Upon finding this snake he said that it was cool to the touch, and was leaving its mouth open a lot and "thrashing" his head around some. He also looked dehydrated, so he was given a quick warm bath.

I am by no means an expert, but these symptoms sound like a RI don't they?

I've decided that action needs to be taken, and I am going over there tonight after work to sort this all out. If I do somehow end up with this rescue I am going to need much help/support/info from this forum.

What is the ideal set up for a rescue with an RI? (Keep in mind that money is tight)

How do I properly QT him from my other BP?

What type of vet bills am I looking at?

If he will eat, should I feed him? (It has probably been awhile since his last meal)

I'm going to try my best to aquire this snake with proper methods, so don't worry about me getting into trouble! Also, if I cannot take the snake with me I am at least going to purchase a good tub setup for my friend to step in and take care with a little of my supervision. Any and all advice is needed and appreciated!

What is the ideal set up for a rescue with an RI? (Keep in mind that money is tight) A 28 qt tub kept warm and proper humidity, with a hot spot of 94.

How do I properly QT him from my other BP? Keep him in a separate room at the farthest end of your house. Always handle him and his furniture last

What type of vet bills am I looking at?If it worsens, you will need a culture and anti-biotics. I have no estimate price, but set aside a couple bills

If he will eat, should I feed him? (It has probably been awhile since his last meal)dont feed him while he is sick, esp after he was just loose. better to get him healthy again before attempting to feed because this also stresses them out.

Good luck, let us know how things go. More details will help us to help you! ;)

I appreciate the reply, and hopefully tomorrow I will have the snake in my "custody" and can post a lot more details/pictures/etc. After tomorrow I have the next 2 days off of work, so I can devote a lot of time and energy to this project. Wish me luck!

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What is the ideal set up for a rescue with an RI? (Keep in mind that money is tight)

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For a rescue in my opinion a secure enclosure such as a tub is always best, depending on the snake's size

Up to 500 grams – 15 Quarts (17"L x 11 1/8"W x 6 3/8"H)

Up to 1500 grams – 32 Quarts (23 1/2"L x 16 1/4"W x 6 3/8"H)

Above 1500 grams – 41 Quarts (34 3/4"L x 16 1/2"W x 6"H)

Bump the temps and humidity until your BP is seen by a vet.

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How do I properly QT him from my other BP?

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Preferably in an other room, always work with your establish collection first and the QT last.

Make sure there is no cross contamination, so if you use tongs, spray bottle, etc make sure you have one of each for each room (Collection & QT)

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What type of vet bills am I looking at?

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Really hard to tell it will depends on the vet, call around it will give you an idea.

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If he will eat, should I feed him? (It has probably been awhile since his last meal)

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I would wait.

:gj: Good job for stepping up to the plate.

Hey man i was part of the group of people who had a comment that got us all yelled at but i knew you should of rescused the snake haha but hey just ask the kid ( hey man doesnt seem like you really care would you mind giving me the snake) i hate seeing animals in bad situations all i have to say is do your best to get the snake heathly and thats all that matters, the kid might just need to learn on how to take care of a ball who knows i hope he gets well .. sorry for the ramble but i just feel strong on this kind of stuff

I'm praying for ya!! Fingers and toes crossed! Remember to be polite and as non-condescending as possible. Remind him that a respiratory infection will kill the snake without constant and knowledgeable care, and the vet bills will be high if he tries to care for the snake and the condition worsens.

T, do I know this friend of G?

Let me know how everything works out, I'll be back down in 2 weeks.

Glad you're sticking with it. Hope everything works out in favor of the snake.

Let us know right away what happens btw!!

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Originally Posted by ThyTempest

T, do I know this friend of G?

Let me know how everything works out, I'll be back down in 2 weeks.

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Yes you do.