The timeframe was sheer inexperience and cautiousness on my end. I knew he was uncomfortable but I'm sure the prolonged discomfort of having that stuck shed on top of his head and neck was worse. I'm just happy I got it off safely at this point.
I have a rat thawing as we speak as a reward for his troubles at least. Even despite the ordeal he has his head poking out of the hide so I know he's hungry (and it is a feeding day anyway haha).
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