That is pretty bad I'm sure every reptile/amphibian lover has plenty of similar horror stories. I always have mixed emotions going into pet stores, because I always want to run over and check on the snakes, but I know I'll always be either irritated or downright horrified at how they're "caring" for them

One store I only went into once had a 4 foot ball python (with bad shed and retained eye caps) sitting in a 20 gal tank on top of filthy corn cob bedding with absolutely nothing in there with him except a water dish, with no water in it, that he was trying desperately to squeeze behind to hide. I was so outraged I spoke to the first employee I saw and asked why the snake was being kept in such conditions. They didn't really have an answer and didn't really seem to care. So I...um...rather forcefully suggested that they at least clean the bedding and give it some water.

It is absolutely ridiculous that these pet stores are basically allowed to abuse these snakes (and other reptiles and amphibians). Whether it's due to ignorance or just outright negligence, it's still inexcusable in my opinion. There really should be a way to regulate them and they all should be given a set of minimum care requirements that they have to meet. That will probably never happen though Very sad. At least we know there are some of us out there that are trying to do the right thing.

Ah there are so many cases like this unfortunately, and every one always manages to irk me

As far as the frozen hoppers go, I've seen someone do that before too and it is a little weird. They're probably fine to feed to your snake, but if you're really worried you can always rinse them off with a little water