When I got my first Ball Python I didn't know I needed a thermostat either. I had purchased it from a pet store and all they told me I needed was a heat pad. It wasn't until I realized my hit side temps were 134 that I ran out and bought my first Herpstat.. So don't feel too bad.

If your going to be able to afford the herpstat or a VE100 system in the next few week. The cheapest method you can go with is a lamp dimmer. It's not, by any means a permanent solution, or an ideal way to contol the heat but it's better than having them sit on that heat. They are only a few bucks, and it will regulate it enough to avoid such large numbers. If your looking at a couple of months before you can get one - your not going to be able to get a proportional thermostat.

You'll be looking at something generic like the zoomed repti-temp. It's not what I would consider a proper solution, but it was last you until you can make a purchase from spyder co or Vivarium Electronics. http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...AvailInUS%2FNo