What do I do with this poor baby?

[LindsayMichelle]

I hope OP goes through steps to demand a refund and if not given it, get in contact with whomever runs the convention this animal was bought at to bring the breeder to their attention. This wouldn't fly at my local one, at least.

This hatchling deserved better than that and its cruel to do to a new hobbyist.

I'm not holding onto hope for a refund, although $200 is a lot of money for my family. I may still try, but I definitely want to say something so this doesn't happen to another snake/owner. Any suggestions on what to say to him? He made it pretty clear that I should have been intervening/way more proactive when he didn't eat the first time, so I know he believes I am at fault for this.

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[dadofsix]

It's quite possible that no one here, not even those with great experience with snakes, could have saved this little guy given the condition it was likely in when you got it.

My sincere condolences to you for your loss. Give yourself time to heal. It will happen.

And remember, this is a wonderful forum to learn from, and, it is also a place to laugh with friends at some of the zanier situations that pop up out of the blue from time to time.

<><Peace

[zina10]

I'm not holding onto hope for a refund, although $200 is a lot of money for my family. I may still try, but I definitely want to say something so this doesn't happen to another snake/owner. Any suggestions on what to say to him? He made it pretty clear that I should have been intervening/way more proactive when he didn't eat the first time, so I know he believes I am at fault for this.

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Honestly?

From what I've gathered and heard so far, I wouldn't hold my breath that you get anything other then a guilt trip from that person!!

Just what should you have done ???

You didn't even have that animal for a full 4 weeks. Everyone knows you have to give them a few days rest. So you really only had 2 weeks to work with.
And who expects having to take "drastic" and pro-active measures after one missed feeding (after the week down time) ?? So what did he think you should do ? Force feed after one refused feeding ???

You waited ONE more week and then tried a live hopper, but the snake was to weak before then. So within 2 weeks the snake was so weak and lethargic it couldn't even swallow its food. Your husbandry wasn't perfect, but far better then others have. That is not what caused that snake to decline so rapidly !!!

Besides, a 7 month old snake at barely 90 grams at time of sale ? How does he explain that ?? And he told you to feed a live pinky ?? Who feeds a 7 month old Ball Python pinkies ??

He knows he can berate you and guilt trip you, because you are "new". He wouldn't dare try those arguments here or anywhere else where people know what the deal is.

So no, I doubt you'll see a penny.

The thing you could do is to present your case on the FBI facebook page. Not "the" FBI. Long name is "FBI - Feedback and Inquiries For Reptiles". Sign up there and read the terms, rules and a few posts, and you'll see how it works.

If you do decide to present your case make sure you have everything. Breeders name, what they said, what they did, pictures. Any proof. And be prepared to back it up. You also can't delete the post or you'll be banned. Just post the bare facts. He will be called out, but he will also possibly try to turn this around on you. But he hasn't got a leg to stand on, imho.

If this is an option for you, just sign up there, read a bit, and you will get the gist of it. If nothing more, others will be warned not to deal with that person..