Yup, as I was reading I was thinking 'bet it's a garter'.

That is classic. I know several people who freak at the mere mention of my 8 snakes...let alone in seeing one. Heavy Sigh.
I have great respect for actual fear brought on by bad incidents when young, and I understand that snakes have a bad rep... but come ON people! A tiny, cute little garter??

That was a great story, and I'm glad the little one got a good home rather than a beating or worse. Good going!