Quote Originally Posted by Robyn@SYR View Post
I can see how that would rub you wrong, my apologies for casting such a broad net. I thought it was already getting too wordy.

There are some great vets out there, and some with solid reptile experience, no doubt. But the majority of vet visit stories I see are with vets that have little to no reptile experience, and end up performing procedures (for a fee) that have little relevance to proper captive husbandry or reptile recovery.

The local vet we use takes the same approach we do, and would have a solid chance of success, as you did. But I think he (and you) are the exception, not the rule.
I agree with you that a large number of vets having limited reptile experience. One of the reasons why I decided to perform the procedure myself was because of a negative (and costly) experience I had with a local exotic animal vet in our area. However, I believe it is probably worth the time to research the vets in your area to make that determination before you attempt the procedure you suggested. Many vets are capable, and even if they do not have the experience dealing with hard-belly, I imagine many vets would be willing to listen to their customers when it comes to procedural advice. Vets at least have the proper equipment, training, and skill to perform a relatively simple procedure. If caught early enough, I believe the snake has a much better chance of survival if operated on than if someone tried to push out a large mass that would injure the snake.