My gf is an equine/ small animal vet. We're out in the middle of nowhere and there isn't a herp vet for quite a long way. She received a ball python about 1-1.5 feet long from a client that "hadn't eaten in weeks". The living conditions are sub par from what we can gather. He's been placed in a more humid environment with better heating and seems a bit more active, however he's moving around like he's neurologic. He will move a little bit and will come to rest with his head upside down or sideways, rest for a few seconds and then move again. He might right himself or curl back on himself, just depends. Not moving at all like a snake should -- seems very weak. He's been force-fed a pinkie as the owner couldn't actually remember the last time he ate.

The bottom of the snake is 'caved in'. When he moves, the indentation is very dramatic. My gf also removed an eye cap which the owner didn't notice. No information was given about the last time he shed, ate or defecated. Obviously he seems depressed and lethargic.

The snake was purchased from a pet store not too long ago.

GF has some exotic experience but mostly avian. What kind of treatments, antibiotics and research would you recommend? From what we've researched, he seems to be exibiting signs of parasites however we don't have enough experience with snakes to be absolutely certain and do not know which antibiotics to prescribe or dosage to give. Could y'all give a hand or point us in a good direction?

Owner is a 'money case' and doesn't want to spend much money but we would like to get the little guy back "on his feet".

Thanks!