Quote Originally Posted by Albert Clark View Post
Certainly damage to the hemipenes occurs from inexperienced people doing it. How else is someone going to become familiar with the procedure if it's not practiced? You are experienced and that you were assisting him with the procedure is good. Hopefully it's just irritated and not punctured or torn internally. Did you guys use enough lubricant, ky, or surgilube prior because that is important as well. Keep an eye out for any bleeding and or swelling the next few days. I would refrain from handling him unnecessarily and keep a watch on the vent and tail regions. Consider a vet if you see any abnormal swelling or bleeding. Stay in peace and not pieces.
I use vaseline for lubricant and always have. I know what you mean, people always mention getting a professional to sex your ball pythons but those professionals had to start somewhere. I personally was taught by a breeder at a reptile expo, I had ten minutes of show and tell and went home and attempted it myself and had no issues and have been doing it ever since. But I still have no clue if my ball python is hurt or not. I have never witnessed a snake do that before.