Yafe - Albino Carpet Progression Thread

All I can do now is administer the medication as prescribed, keep him at proper temps and humidity, and hope for the best.

I will continue to keep everyone in the loop.

Regarding the breeder. I knew the company was based in Europe, but I was also under the impression that the US Division essentially was a separate entity. I had no idea if there was a problem I would have to deal with Europe and they would override the guy I had been dealing with and had a good experience with so far.

Obviously I am not pleased about his condition and don't know how well he was before he left. I agree that he definitely needed a vet visit in the state he was in. Bumping temps was not going to solve this.

Depending on how this is resolved, I will speak about the breeder and the experience. I am not one to bad mouth people, certainly until all the facts are in, but I do not want someone else having the same problem either. I am a little torn here. There was a delay with fedex, etc. However, I spent 7 hours back and forth with FedEx to make sure he got here the day he was supposed to (12 hours late, but better than 24). I usually deal with small breeders. However, the reputation of the breeder was solid, I did not understand the intricacies of the business model, and the animals are stunning. I also had a good experience picking the animal and discussing the animal with the US person. He seemed to know the animals very well and was very responsive. I had also been looking at a much more expensive animal with more genetic traits, but was told if it was just a pet, to consider a few others that I might find equally appealing, but weren't genetic powerhouses. Because of all this, I felt okay buying from them.

Regarding the heat pack. I understand that too hot is worse than cold. I've preached it many times here. Fine line between a little hot and neurological issues and death. Cold, there is more leeway, even if it's not ideal for digestion. However, max temps were 75F in both locations, lows were upper 40's to low 50's, and who knows what the temps not the plane were. Further, I assumed he was being sent with a heat pack and was told after the fact, after the delay, that he had not been. I would have liked to have been involved in that conversation. I've had many reptiles sent to me, here in CT, in this type of climate, and they always came with a heat pack. Not saying that's right or wrong, but I was very surprised to learn there was not one. Further, the breeder in Europe agreed with me that he should have been sent with one.

Well the heat pack issue should have definitely been discussed with you. Bad on his part to not talk to you and let you help in the decision since it is YOUR snake now that you paid for it.

And if the breeder is who i am thinking of as i think you mentioned it a while ago, I too was not aware they were EU based. I have heard good things though if it is the same people i am thinking of. Although now with your issue and lack of communication on the US part with shipping, I would think twice but then again, if i was looking for a carpet, I would go with Inland Reptiles as he lives fairly close to me and has a stellar reputation with carpets. There is also Ed Lily for carpets too who is/used to live by me. His animals look good even though i am not a fan of his cages :)

Anyways, your snake should be fine and even if you dont get any form of compensation, if the snake heals up fast and with no complications, then you can at least just write this whole dilemma off as a learning experience.

Good luck with Yafe.

Poor Little Yafe... He has had a heck of an introduction to the Dakski/SunshineWalker house.

I am new to snakes, and reptiles in general. I have to say though, I am very familiar with Human symptomology with breathing and respiratory issues. It was scary to me that Yafe progressed so quickly, from a chill little guy to struggling to breath and wheezing on every breath! It was also strange to have talked to the US rep on the phone who was super supportive, but then get this e-mail from the EU that was so harsh (but then culturally these are known to be a very direct people... so maybe that is part of it?)

All that being said, we figured about 1 am the night of the vet that we prob could have waited til the am appt. However, with how fast and seemingly severe the distress was, we did not want to have any regrets. We were also under the impression that the reptile/exotics person was on site that evening, as that was what we were told when we called prior to coming in. :( Oh well, live and learn I suppose on that end. :P

Dakski is a great snake Dad, and he's an absolute wreck over the whole situation. I wish there were more I could do, but I guess actually injecting a snake is up there on the "things you do for love." I have to admit, I was a wreck to do it for him. At first attempt, the needle popped out. On second attempt I got it, pushed the fluid in, pulled out the needle and began to sob.

I hope our little man gets better soon! I really liked how he felt coming out of the box hanging on to my arm - I am the tree!

This whole mess has been very stressful for you both, besides poor Yafe. And yes, "hindsight is 20:20"...you had to make a snap decision about going to the
vet, no one can fault you for that...hard to sit by & watch a beautiful creature struggling to breathe. I just hope he recovers soon & fully...:please:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SunshineWalker

Poor Little Yafe... He has had a heck of an introduction to the Dakski/SunshineWalker house.

I am new to snakes, and reptiles in general. I have to say though, I am very familiar with Human symptomology with breathing and respiratory issues. It was scary to me that Yafe progressed so quickly, from a chill little guy to struggling to breath and wheezing on every breath! It was also strange to have talked to the US rep on the phone who was super supportive, but then get this e-mail from the EU that was so harsh (but then culturally these are known to be a very direct people... so maybe that is part of it?)

All that being said, we figured about 1 am the night of the vet that we prob could have waited til the am appt. However, with how fast and seemingly severe the distress was, we did not want to have any regrets. We were also under the impression that the reptile/exotics person was on site that evening, as that was what we were told when we called prior to coming in. :( Oh well, live and learn I suppose on that end. :P

Dakski is a great snake Dad, and he's an absolute wreck over the whole situation. I wish there were more I could do, but I guess actually injecting a snake is up there on the "things you do for love." I have to admit, I was a wreck to do it for him. At first attempt, the needle popped out. On second attempt I got it, pushed the fluid in, pulled out the needle and began to sob.

I hope our little man gets better soon! I really liked how he felt coming out of the box hanging on to my arm - I am the tree!

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I did not mention the sobbing when I said both Yafe and Katie did a great job. I think SunshineWalker and I are both, "rise to the occasion, but fall apart after people." I had been so focused on taking care of Yafe and making sure he didn't regress more. My job last week, was essentially his welfare. Now that it's just a waiting game, I am a total anxious mess. He was in his warm hide yesterday (which I bumped from 89-90F to 90-91F) and I couldn't see him. Boy was my mind racing with scenarios when I go to take him out tonight for his 2nd injection. I know I shouldn't expect much, or anything, at this point, but I am praying he shows us something good. Either way, tonight is injection 2/10.

Thank you all for continuing to write, stay tuned, and think of all of us in this mess.

P.S. SunswhineWalker, you are the tree! Just ask Ezzy!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by dakski

Either way, tonight is injection 2/10.

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We have to do this 9 more times!!! :O:colbert:

Hang in there guys. You're going to get through this! We're all rooting for you!

Another quick, but substantial update:

I spoke to the breeder again today. He is reimbursing me for diagnosis and medication, as I had asked as a compromise, and wants me to keep him in the loop if meds change, etc.

I have to say, I feel very differently about this situation, and this breeder, now, then I did before.

Given how quickly Yafe deteriorated, I am open to the idea that the shipping delay largely caused this, and/or made him increasingly more susceptible. Not much difference. He appeared fine when he arrived. 24 hours later, not so much, but that does leave room open for the idea that he was not sick when he left.

I was not in a good place when I got the first response from the breeder and I had sent a accusatory email. I was angry. What did I expect back?

Working through this with the breeder the past few days has showed me that a) they care about their animals and want what's best and b) customer service is important to them.

This whole thing was probably a fluke and I happened to be the one to get a sick snake in the end. I was talking to Phillydubs and said I am kind of glad I was the one to get him. How many less experienced keepers would not have know what was going on or been able to handle injections, quarantine, etc. If everything works out here, maybe it was meant to be. He needed me and SunshineWalker.

I am hoping all works out with Yafe (obvisouly) and that we can all move past this.

At this point, I have little negative to say about the breeder. Yafe was as advertised, aside from sick, and they did work with me here and are open to further issues. Either way, I am glad clearer heads prevailed.

I'll update on Yafe this evening after we give him his second injection. As stated, he is being completely left alone for now, and as much I would love to check on him, that's not an option. He has been curled up in his warm hide the past day or so and I am glad. The nice temps in there should help his immune system and the meds kick in quickly.

More later.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by dakski

... I was talking to Phillydubs and said I am kind of glad I was the one to get him. How many less experienced keepers would not have know what was going on or been able to handle injections, quarantine, etc. If everything works out here, maybe it was meant to be. He needed me and SunshineWalker....

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For what it's worth, that's EXACTLY what I've been thinking...he couldn't have gone to more caring, attentive & experienced owners that would fight for him the
way you both have. His lucky day! :gj:

I have a very positive report.

The preliminary culture on Yafe's lungs shows Gram-Negative rods, a type of bacteria that can be consistent with this type of symptoms and an RI. We will know more tomorrow or Wednesday (today is Monday) and know if he should stay on this antibiotic, or switch to another one. Either way, it sounds like taking him in to the vet and getting a culture done were the right move.


We took Yafe out tonight and gave him his injection. Both he, and Katie, did amazing. Even better than last time.


He had a little dried mucus around his mouth, but, again, it was dry. Additionally, no discharge from his nose today. He made no audible noises like wheezing, popping, etc.


Additionally, he seemed much more comfortable and made no odd movements. Last time he was out (3 days ago when home from the vet and got his injection), he would stretch out his neck and then suddenly and drastically and in jerky motions, move his head side to side several inches each way. He would even bang into my arm or hand. He did this the day before I took him to the vet as well. I am hoping that he was just super uncomfortable and that as he can breath better and the mucus disappears, he will continue not to show signs of that behavior.


Either raising temps and letting him be, the antibiotic, or a combination of the two, seems to be helping.


We saw his tongue out and about today for the first time as well. He had, what I describe as, "Happy Tongue." Slow and exploratory movements. Day 2 and 3 after he arrived, in addition to the popping, wheezing, and discharge, he would only stick his tongue out a few mm at best.


Overall, a very good report.


I will continue to keep everyone in the loop and advise on the culture when able. I want to be sure I should give another injection of the current med on Thursday evening, or pick up a new med if necessary.

I do want to write a little about the past two days. They have been a living hell for me and Katie. We have been so stressed out. We were so worried about Yafe! We didn't know what we would find when we took him out today to give the injection. He had been in his warm hide for the past two days and we had no idea how he was doing. We were so anxious he would be worse, dead, or dying, or still incredibly uncomfortable. Tonight was such a relief. Katie/SunshineWalker cried she was so relieved and I wasn't far behind her. To hear him breathing normally, and to see "normal" movements and not the flailing we saw the day before and the day we took him to the vet, was wonderful. Truly a blessing.

He did help us out a little because when we went to take him out, he had his little head peeking out of the hide entrance. What a relief!

We are not out of the woods yet, and he still needs 8 (at least - assuming correct antibiotic) more injections, and he is still on quarantine for another 90 days or so. However, things are definitely looking up.

Here is a link to a 36 second video of him immediately after the injection and right before he went back in his tank for the next 3 days. His movements look different to me than my ground dwellers (2 Corn snakes and 1 BP) and even my BCI. However, I've never had a carpet python, and he's very arboreal, and he seems in complete control of his movements. So unless someone else with Carpets sees anything out of the ordinary, I am calling today a win.


Video Link to Yafe with Happy Tongue after Injection

https://streamable.com/j7k2n

Oh wow, he's look SO much better already! I nominate you & Katie "Snarents of the Year"! :D

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

For what it's worth, that's EXACTLY what I've been thinking...he couldn't have gone to more caring, attentive & experienced owners that would fight for him the
way you both have. His lucky day! :gj:

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Well, so far, so good. Maybe it was destiny we find each other. Yafe deserves me and Katie though. He’s a good boy.

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

Oh wow, he's look SO much better already! I nominate you & Katie "Snarents of the Year"! :D

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Thank you! We thought he looked much better too!

Katie and I really appreciate the “Snarents of the Year” comment. It means a lot to us. We do our best. Katie’s really getting the hang of it.

After his light went out, I checked temps in his tank because room temp had changed and his hot spot and basking spot had dropped 1-2f. Not much. Howver, I am keeping it a little warmer in there (still within proper range though) to help with healing.

He was wedged between the warm hide and the back the back left of the tank.

I put the heat gun near him and get a reading from the heat pad to make sure it’s at proper temps.

Yafe, sweet Yafe, lifts his head, opens his mouth a touch, and hisses at me. Little PITA.

All kidding aside sounds to me like he’s feeling better and feeling secure in his temporary digs.

I’ll take a little sass over a sick snake any day!

I think it's a compliment alright...you're fit to hiss at, lol. (that's better than too passive ANY day!)

Just wait until you give him more shots...pretty sure he's already calling YOU a PITA. :rofl:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

Oh wow, he's look SO much better already! I nominate you & Katie "Snarents of the Year"! :D

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Wow this is crazy... I've owned reptiles for 2 weeks and I'm already a "snarent of the year"!

I'd like to thank dakski...for making me a snarent.

and.... all the snakes

Yafe couldn’t have landed better snarents. While I hate to see all three of you go through this, it’s already apparent that you’re both invested in his recovery and are seeing the results of that dedication. That he’s showing some sass is a good thing. :D

As stated, Yafe is getting left alone until he is 100% and only taken out for injections, fresh water, and cage cleanings, all of which I will try to do at the same time so he's only out 1X every 3 days.

I am still waiting for the full culture results to know if he's on the correct/best antibiotic, but things are looking good.

He had been in his warm hide last night and this morning, but guess who decided to come out and "hang around" and say hello?

He appears not to be bubbling or having difficulty breathing and seems calm and relaxed. I am starting to feel significantly better about the situation. Any day I get to see his cute face and he doesn't seem uncomfortable, it's a good day!

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/su8SIIB.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/cnQCSvy.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/DlPnFay.jpg[/IMG]

Fingers still crossed but I'm hoping he's out of the woods and on his way back to full strength D. You and Katie are doing a great job with him and I believe he'll have a long, healthy, happy life with youz'all. ;)

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Originally Posted by EL-Ziggy

Fingers still crossed but I'm hoping he's out of the woods and on his way back to full strength D. You and Katie are doing a great job with him and I believe he'll have a long, healthy, happy life with youz'all. ;)

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EL-Ziggy,

Katie and I are also hoping Yafe has a long, healthy, and happy life with us! We want that for all our animals. We are completely attached to Yafe now, and already were when we realized he was sick. There was no going back. He was ours at that point, both literally and metaphorically.

We aren't selling the farm yet, but things are definitely looking up! I am optimistic about Yafe making a full recovery for the first time since we got him.

He gets his third injection (of 10) Thursday night (today is Tuesday) and I am hoping the culture results tomorrow show he is on the correct antibiotic. If not, he will probably still get an injection Thursday night, but if might be of another medicine.

He's moving in the right direction at the moment. So relieved.

Assuming no med changes, and he keeps improving, I plan to offer food on Monday night (the night after his 4th injection) so he has two days to digest before his 5th injection on Wednesday night. Worst case, he doesn't eat, but I want him to have some strength to fight the rest of the RI off with the help of the meds. If he eats, even better, and he will really be feeling better and on the road to a full recovery. If not, I'll offer again in a week.

As you know by now, I will keep everyone in the loop.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by dakski

...
Assuming no med changes, and he keeps improving, I plan to offer food on Monday night (the night after his 4th injection) so he has two days to digest before his 5th injection on Wednesday night. Worst case, he doesn't eat, but I want him to have some strength to fight the rest of the RI off with the help of the meds. If he eats, even better, and he will really be feeling better and on the road to a full recovery. If not, I'll offer again in a week.....

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When I looked up Ceftazidime, one of the side effects listed is nausea; are you sure it's a good idea to feed him while on this drug? (did the vet say one way or the other?) If you do feed him, I'd keep it much smaller than what you'd normally give.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

When I looked up Ceftazidime, one of the side effects listed is nausea; are you sure it's a good idea to feed him while on this drug? (did the vet say one way or the other?) If you do feed him, I'd keep it much smaller than what you'd normally give.

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The vet said that if he's feeling better and willing to eat, I could feed him. However, I speak to her tomorrow (hopefully) about the culture results, and I will specifically ask that question again.

I did plan to feed a smaller meal as well; first meal with us, stress, health, etc.

Thank you for the heads up.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

When I looked up Ceftazidime, one of the side effects listed is nausea; are you sure it's a good idea to feed him while on this drug? (did the vet say one way or the other?) If you do feed him, I'd keep it much smaller than what you'd normally give.

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I've had to give Ceftazidime aka Fortaz to Harley and Rosey and neither would eat while on it. First and only time Rosey ever declined a meal. So i wouldnt be surprised if Yafe doesnt want to eat. Pretty much any antibiotic is rough for reptiles. Also Fortaz gave Rosey the runs for a few poops.

You can try to offer food but if not interested, i wouldnt bug him with it.

You might also want to add Bene-Bac* (pro-biotics) to the rodent after any course of antibiotics too, since (just as in humans), the antibiotics will wipe out the
good bacteria essential for digestion right along with the bad bacteria it's supposed to fight off. *Be sure to get the reptile-version, & fyi, when I've used it I
usually fill the oral cavity of the prey item with the powder or gel, & the snake won't know the difference. If you try to make it stick to the fur, it mostly falls
off & the snake may not take the prey since it smells different.

I have great news!

Yafe continues to look good today and I heard from the Vet.

The bacteria causing his RI is Bordetella. It is highly susceptible to the current antibiotic and I am to continue treatment as planned. The prognosis is excellent.

She also said I can offer food next week, and that nausea doesn't affect all animals on it, but not to be surprised if he doesn't eat. If he refuses, I will try 1 week after we finish the injections. I also asked about a probiotic and am waiting to hear back.

I'll continue to keep everyone in the loop.

We are exceptionally relieved with his progress and the right call on the antibiotic.

:carrot::carrot::carrot: Great news! No wonder he's improving so fast. I didn't know that snakes can get "kennel cough" though? ;) Very interesting...

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

:carrot::carrot::carrot: Great news! No wonder he's improving so fast. I didn't know that snakes can get "kennel cough" though? ;) Very interesting...

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The 30 hour travel time did it. Way too long. Still incredibly glad I was able to pick him up at the airport at 30 hours and not 42 hours! That could have been disastrous.

I’ve been keeping Don Soderberg in the loop. We have become friendly and he’s a great resource. I emailed him today with the diagnosis and an update. He said, “Fabulous news. Nobody could debate that your actions clearly saved its life. Congratulations.”

I have no doubt I probably did save his life and and he will have a great life with me and Katie. I have zero regrets. Vet was necessarily.

I will continue to update.

WOW Dakski... I must have missed that post of you introducing Yafe... He is gorgeous and I am jealous!
I am glad though he got treatment and is on the road to recovery. You and Katie are starting to get quite
the collection. You should have a open house and invite all of us over!:party:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by dakski

The 30 hour travel time did it. Way too long. Still incredibly glad I was able to pick him up at the airport at 30 hours and not 42 hours! That could have been disastrous.

I’ve been keeping Don Soderberg in the loop. We have become friendly and he’s a great resource. I emailed him today with the diagnosis and an update. He said, “Fabulous news. Nobody could debate that your actions clearly saved its life. Congratulations.”

I have no doubt I probably did save his life and and he will have a great life with me and Katie. I have zero regrets. Vet was necessarily.

I will continue to update.

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I honestly dont think it was the 30 hour trip. It might have gotten cold but unless the snake already had the bacteria, it wouldnt just 'pop up'. Alex was stuck in transit from Tuesday morning until Thursday morning and he is fine (knock on wood). And he is a tiny 3 month old baby that is thick as a pencil on his best day lol. But regardless, good that the RI us getting beaten.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Sauzo

I honestly dont think it was the 30 hour trip. It might have gotten cold but unless the snake already had the bacteria, it wouldnt just 'pop up'. Alex was stuck in transit from Tuesday morning until Thursday morning and he is fine (knock on wood). And he is a tiny 3 month old baby that is thick as a pencil on his best day lol. But regardless, good that the RI us getting beaten.

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Same thoughts. Phyllis went through an entire extra day of travel when she was three weeks old and it was 40* at her destination and suffered no RI. Either way, good on you Dakski for being very proactive about the ordeal and getting treatment right away. Hope the best for you and the new critter. Keep us posted!


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Yafe got his 3rd injection tonight.

As with the past two injections, I held Yafe down, with his head covered in a towel (one layer over the other - not smothering him) so he didn't see what we were doing, and Katie administered the injection. Everyone is getting this down pretty well. Yafe's calmer, Katie is calmer, and overall, I think we can handle another 7 injections.

He still has a few pops when he exerts himself, but not nearly as bad as they were. There was no wheezing, and nothing coming out of his nostrils. He did have a little mucus, wet, not dry, on his mouth in the front. I also noticed that the warm corner he's been curled up in, and the top ledge above the doors, where he's been hanging around, had some smeared mucus. I cleaned that with F10SC.

I am optimistic given the improvement, and although I had hoped for more improvement from injection 2 to injection 3, I don't think that's reasonable to expect. This is day 6 and he has a 30 day course of antibiotics. Overall, big improvement, and I will continue to be hopefull. I am fully aware sick snakes don't get better overnight.

On the plus size, he's continuing to flick his tongue and make "happy tongue" movements, and he doesn't seem nearly as stressed or strained. He's actually a pretty chill, although curious, little guy. He went right back after the injection and a little while later, I checked on him, and sat down to write this, and he's being a carpet python. See below. Much better than him curled up in a warm corner with his head stretched out halfway up the tank trying to breathe.

Here are the pictures of Yafe tonight, doing the Carpet Python thing. It's about 91F on his UTH and about 88F where he is on the branches. It goes up to 90F if he climbs up a few inches.

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/cM7GSSC.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/o6UJ9PX.jpg[/IMG]

He's doing as well as you can expect at this point...30 days feels like an eternity, but at least he's comfortable & acting pretty normal now...just think how long
it would feel if he was miserably ill the whole time? :grouphug:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Bogertophis

He's doing as well as you can expect at this point...30 days feels like an eternity, but at least he's comfortable & acting pretty normal now...just think how long
it would feel if he was miserably ill the whole time? :grouphug:

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I know; I have perspective. It would also be so much worse if I hadn't taken him to the vet and he was suffering through all this. I feel I did the right thing.

Having said that, I won't be able to rest until he's cured, is done with antibiotics and symptoms haven't returned, and he's eating normally.

I can get pretty anxious. However, that's partly why I am so meticulous about temps, humidity, quarantine, etc. It's paying dividends right now.

I believe in preventing illness with proper husbandry. This vet, injection, sick snake, game is not fun. I am going to do everything I can to make sure Yafe doesn't get sick again.

You've done all the right things, & had you waited, he'd surely have been worse off. He's in great hands with you, & if there was a way to fast-forward his
recovery it would be awesome...but I do think he'll get there...he's got ALL of us pulling for him now. Actually I'm impressed at how much improvement he
has already shown this early, considering how sick he was.

Really pleased all going well still and as you say still got a way to go but at least he's heading in the right direction, looking great tho from the pics

Sent from my TA-1024 using Tapatalk

Very quick update:

Yafe was in his warm hide half the day, but spent the afternoon and evening out next to his hide on the UTH at about 91F curled up in that corner.

He's had his head against the acrylic and I don't seem to notice much, if any, mucus on the acrylic walls tonight. He had he head stretched out for about an hour today, halfway up the tank wall, and I got really worried, but I think he was just stretching and getting comfortable. He seems really calm and relaxed and now his head curled up on his body and flat.

Not sure what all this means, but I am continuing to be optimistic. He comes out Sunday night for another injection (4th) and I'll report on his condition then.

His behavior suggests that he is still being a snake. He's thermoregulating, he's noticing time of day, he's not showing visible signs of distress - this is all cause for your optimism. However, I would not be so quick to worry due to slight behavioral quirks (though I am incredibly sensitive to this so this is advice for myself as well). It's easy to look at everything through a magnifying glass but it's important to observe the behavior as a whole. However, your immediate reaction also probably gave him a better chance at recovery so whatever you're doing, keep doing it.

I had this thought that all this morphology and "gene-play" weakens immune systems because rather than the strongest snakes being chosen to reproduce, it's selected based on aesthetic. Anyone else have any thoughts on this? Would really like to add to my information bank because instead of counting sheep, I think about snakes.

He's beginning to move all over the tank and both thermoregulate and also change elevation and climb more. He's really starting to "Carpet Python."

Here he was this afternoon after spending the evening last night on the heat pad.

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/6OLLXvZ.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...om/RFp2EHI.jpg[/IMG]

Really pleased he's starting to move around a bit more Dave

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Yafe got his 4th injection today. Today at least, things are not looking up.

Yafe was making more popping and wheezing noises tonight when we took him out for his injection. He also seemed visibly uncomfortable and was opening his mouth frequently while breathing. His movements were also more erratic.

He did not stick out his tongue at all, and seems to have taken a step back.

Additionally, Yafe moved a tiny bit while getting the injection and we are not sure it all got in the muscle and at least some may have gotten under the skin. There was a small bubble under the injection spot for a few minutes, but that seems to go away. I am not sure what that means, but of course, it has me worried. Nothing leaked out to be clear.

I emailed the vet and asked about both issues. I am hoping she says to just continue the injections as prescribed and we will see how is as we go along. I am also hoping she says it's normal to take 3 steps forward and then 2 steps back before continuing forward. This up and down thing is frustrating and worrisome.

I understand there is nothing I can do at this point except wait and see and keep up the injections, etc. That's what I plan to do.

I will not offer food tomorrow. If he was doing better, I had considered it, but he is not in a place where he can eat right now.

Oh, no, poor Yafe! So frustrating, the "up & down"...I hope the vet can reassure you (who am I kidding? I hope she reassures ALL of us!) :please: C'mon Yafe!

Thats not good .was hoping for some good news to start my Monday morning when I saw the post.
fingers crossed for you and Katie and yafe of course


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I talked to my Vet today, who I trust implicitly.

She said that she believes Yafe is on the correct antibiotic for the Bordetella in his lungs. However, she thinks a) we can do more and b) Tufts only did a lung culture, not a blood test etc.

She thinks there may be other things going on, such as a secondary infection, that's making it harder for him to fight off the RI.

We will continue the Ceftazidime injections as planned. However, Yafe is visiting my vet tomorrow morning for a full work up. She is planning to prescribe nebulizer treatments (I forgot the medicine off the top of my head) and also see if there is anything else going on that might need another medication.

At this point, I am very concerned that he's going backwards and that he hasn't eaten now in about 3 weeks. He's only 16 months old and about 115G (probably less now). If he needs treatment for another 3 weeks + to get him back on track that means it will be a long time before he gets another meal.

I would also be lying if I said I wasn't concerned that I cannot fix this. I know that's just negative thoughts creeping in, but I wanted to share.

I will do everything I can for him.

In the meantime, I did email the breeder and the US liaison, but haven't heard back from either. I am assuming, at this point, that I am on my own with whatever the bill is tomorrow (and it won't be low, I am sure of that).

Unbelievably frustrated, distraught, and down. Please keep Yafe, and me and Katie, in your thoughts and prayers.

It’s gotta be tough staying optimistic but if there are other things going on the probability it shows up in a full work up should be pretty good. Then get the treatment going on that and hit the road back to health.
I didn’t see any mention the Vet was extremely worried so that’s gotta be a good sign. I can only imagine your frustrations and concern, your not alone in this. A lot of good people on hear hanging on edge to hear the good news it’s going to get better. The updates are appreciated and I really hope the results from tomorrow’s visit bring a little relief.


Oh yeah, in it for the bad as well just not going to bring that up.

If only we had a crystal ball...

For what it's worth, it could be as simple as the congestion breaking up. Which can make breathing harder again, especially since snakes can't really cough it up, like we do. So perhaps he is still on the upswing.

Can't hurt to rule out the darker possibilities, though. I would make sure they do all the important tests that can be done, so he doesn't have the stress of multiple vet visits. Don't worry about him not eating right now. Even 6 weeks of no food is not that bad. He is young and he is small. But they aren't heavy bodied like Ball Pythons. At this point putting his body through the stress of digestion is not a good thing. He needs all his strength and resources to fight off this infection. Sure, food is energy. But for snakes, digestion is HARD work. I read about all the changes that go on in their body during digestion, raising of heart beat, etc.

If you can get him healthy, he will catch up and fast. The priority right now is to keep him as stress free as possible (aside from necessary vet visits, meds, maintenance, etc) and to let him recover. Perhaps you could cover the sides and back of his cage with dark paper. I know they don't hide quite as much as Ball Pythons, but it may make him feel better not to be quite so exposed. You could make it removable in case you have to peek in on him from a certain angle..

Good luck, I know how stressful this must be , my thoughts are with all of you..

Thank you all for the kind words, it means a lot.

Zina10, I hope you are right about the congestion, but for what's worth, the vet didn't think so. She was concerned.

Still praying for and with y'all D & Katie.

C'mon Yafe! Let's beat this thing!

I don't mean to freak you out more then you already are..

But since you are going to the Vet tomorrow, and that is the time to bring up and discuss all the possibilities and to order any tests, I'm going to link you to some other possibilities, the "dark" ones when it comes to reoccurring URI in snakes.

Of course it DOES NOT mean he has any of those. Its early days yet, he could simply been having a bad day. But again, since you are going to the Vet, might as well question about the other possibilities. Especially since you have other beloved reptiles, and some diseases are air-born.

In the mean time I would make quarantine as strict as humanely possible. I know you are already taking all kinds of precautions. But I would want him and his cage in a completely different part of the house. True, it may not make a difference at this point, but what can it hurt.

Hopefully you will get more (and better) answers tomorrow.

https://skiploder.wordpress.com/2014...ris-in-snakes/


I'm crossing fingers and toes that he just needs a bit more time and will be right as rain before to long !!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by dakski

... Please keep Yafe, and me and Katie, in your thoughts and prayers.

---

You know it! It's gut-wrenching for me to imagine what you're going thru, but try to stay optimistic that your vet will find the secondary treatable issue & that Yafe will
respond and be totally healthy in time. :please: This could be literally ANY one of us going thru this with one of our own snakes.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by zina10

I don't mean to freak you out more then you already are..

But since you are going to the Vet tomorrow, and that is the time to bring up and discuss all the possibilities and to order any tests, I'm going to link you to some other possibilities, the "dark" ones when it comes to reoccurring URI in snakes.

Of course it DOES NOT mean he has any of those. Its early days yet, he could simply been having a bad day. But again, since you are going to the Vet, might as well question about the other possibilities. Especially since you have other beloved reptiles, and some diseases are air-born.

In the mean time I would make quarantine as strict as humanely possible. I know you are already taking all kinds of precautions. But I would want him and his cage in a completely different part of the house. True, it may not make a difference at this point, but what can it hurt.

Hopefully you will get more (and better) answers tomorrow.

https://skiploder.wordpress.com/2014...ris-in-snakes/


I'm crossing fingers and toes that he just needs a bit more time and will be right as rain before to long !!

---

Thanks Zina10.

He is in my office. Ezzy in Katie's office. Everyone else is downstairs. He was in the same room for 2 days, but then got moved upstairs. When in the same room, as now, he under strict quarantine. No cross contamination.

No one else is showing signs of anything.

Shayna has started her fall/winter fast, but that's nothing new.

I'll keep everyone in the loop.

Just got a note from the doctor at Tufts, who said, symptoms can get worse before better and not to worry.

I am still taking Yafe to my vet tomorrow. Again, want all the answers, not some, and will do anything I can for him.

I have very good news.

I did take Yafe to my vet this morning (late morning). We got home a little while ago and overall, Katie and I are feeling significantly better.

My vet said there is no need to nebulize now, and that the current antibiotic is the one she would have put him on. She said keep up the injections and update if he doesn't eat in the next week (which she thinks he will) and if things are not 100% after the last injection.

For what's worth, Zina10, I think your theory about congestion breaking up, etc. was a great one. He was 50% better today than 2 days ago. Almost back to where he was after injection #2. We saw tongue flicks and he did fantastic at the vet. She said he's a total sweetheart and very calm, especially for the species and age.

My vet seemed to think currently, the RI was about a 2 or 3 out of 10. It might have been an 8 when I brought him to Tufts (and a 4 or 5 the other day), but she is feeling very good about where he is at after injection #4. She says she sees a lot of RI's and fears for those animals. Usually caused by bad husbandry and continued poor husbandry keeps the animals from getting better more often than you would want to think. She's known me for years and we are on a first name basis. She said she was worried by my description yesterday, but was so relieved when she saw Yafe today. She says I haven't seen a terrible RI before, and she's not surprised, with my husbandry and the care I give all my reptiles.

Two things to address here.

1. I am not tooting my own horn about husbandry, etc. I do take pride in how I care for my animals, but the point is not that I am a great reptile Dad. The point is that others should learn from this. Proper husbandry + cleanliness = healthy animals a significant amount of the time. Poor husbandry + inadequate care = unhealthy or worse animals.

2. Should I have taken Yafe to the vet today? Especially with what I know now?

The simple answer is, "yes." Unequivocally, I have zero regrets, despite the 4 hours in the car (at 78F - man, Katie and I were sweating), and the cost of the vet today.

If he got worse and I hadn't taken him, I would not be able to live with myself.

If I wasted some time and money, but know he's on the right track and has a great prognosis, so be it. I'll have 20+ years to amortize those costs out with a healthy and happy Yafe.

That, my BP.net buddies, is priceless.

I'll keep updating, but assume he will continue to improve.

I plan to offer food Thursday night after his injection tomorrow night. That gives him two days to digest before he needs another injection. I plan to offer a small meal, but want to see if he will eat. Either way, I'll advise, and offer in about another week, whether he takes a mouse Thursday or not.

Again, thank you all for the support. It is much appreciated. I am incredibly happy to share good news today and hope you all continue to watch Yafe not only get healed, but grow into a happy and healthy Carpet. As those of you who know me can attest; I will continue to update for his life!