Found a large ball python. Need help...

[Bogertophis]

People actually would turn a BP loose instead of donating to a rescue? Geebus!

It's possible that it escaped, but you have to consider that in winter temperatures, snakes can barely move...their bodies don't work when too cold, and their immune
system shuts down. So IF it actually escaped, it's unlikely that it went very far from it's "owner". As far as people dumping pets, you'd be surprised & sickened by how
often it happens. And sometimes when people fight with each other, they take it out on the pets that the other one has. Poor snake, I'd happily take it in if I was closer.

[Bogertophis]

Turningstar, that site is run by the association of reptile & amphibian vets, it has nothing to do with our forum. But also ask your local vet for referrals, since
sometimes new exotic vet practices start up & aren't listed as members yet. Good luck...exotics are popular pets in Florida, there is likely a vet near you.

And ANY vets might know of people who rescue exotic pets, so if at first you don't succeed, make some more calls, ok? And they may have a vet tech working there who'd take on the challenge, also. Even Animal Control might have some contact numbers.

[Danger noodles]

At a local exitic pet shop near me they have snakes dropped of on their doorsteps weekly.

[MR Snakes]

At a local exitic pet shop near me they have snakes dropped of on their doorsteps weekly.

At least they are dropped off somewhere reasonable.


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[Bogertophis]

At least they are dropped off somewhere reasonable.


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Well, not outside on the doorstep... For that matter, Humane Society shelters for dogs & cats gets pets dumped outside too, because people don't want to come in
& explain, or there is a waiting list to accept, so they sneak by the place after hours & turn them loose, whereby they get hit by cars etc before the shelter even opens.

[Godzilla78]

If it were me, I’d keep it very warm. Like 85 minimum, but not too hot. I’d keep humidity up to help with the RI.
id then call a vet and get some treatment like antibiotics or whatever they recommend

[bcr229]

What other info can I give you to help find a vet? Im just below Ocala in Florida. About an hour from Gainesville.

If you are on Facebook you can join these groups and ask for info on vets in your area or even if someone wants to take in the snake:
Ocala Reptiles
Florida Herpers
Florida Reptile Sales Trades And Advice

[FollowTheSun]

I just wanted to thank the OP for their compassion and thinking to come here and get advice. The world needs more people like you.

[Turningstar]

Update:

I called my vet, who suggested animal services (closed) or animal control. Animal control suggested wildlife rescue. Wildlife rescue finally got back with me and suggested I vontact their director. Director messaged me back and is coming to pick up the snake. She said she has a 75 gallon tank, live mice, and all the fluids and meds to treat. She also has reptile rehab coming tomorrow for christmas.

So hopefully the snake will pull through and have a good home when he is healthy.

Thank you everyone for your help.

[zina10]

Update:

I called my vet, who suggested animal services (closed) or animal control. Animal control suggested wildlife rescue. Wildlife rescue finally got back with me and suggested I vontact their director. Director messaged me back and is coming to pick up the snake. She said she has a 75 gallon tank, live mice, and all the fluids and meds to treat. She also has reptile rehab coming tomorrow for christmas.

So hopefully the snake will pull through and have a good home when he is healthy.

Thank you everyone for your help.

Thank you for your kindness to this animal in need. Lucky snake indeed, that you found it.

I believe in Karma, good things come to those that do good.