Need advice for sick snake

[Bogertophis]

Don’t think it’s a burn as I’ve tried a handful of antibiotics you rub on the belly. I’ve tried each every day for couple weeks at a time with no improvement. He was on ceftazidime injections every 3 days for 6 weeks with no improvement. I’ve heard Calgary avian and exotic is really good and I would have seen them sooner but when I phoned they told me to go somewhere else because they’re booking 2 weeks out. I will give them a try again as soon as I’m able. Thanks for your advice today.

So you're in Canada? The absolute rule with antibiotics is never to stop them before the full course is given- otherwise, you allow resistant bacterial growth for which there may be no available treatment if the first one fails. It sounds as if you may have stopped the injections he was getting because you weren't seeing improvement- but I hope not? Anyway, the difficulty with snakes (versus other more typical pets like cats & dogs) is that many drugs (including antibiotics) cannot safely be used for them. So the list of those available to treat isn't very long to begin with.

It also sounds as if you were guessing the diagnosis without seeing a vet for some time- delay isn't going to help the outcome if it's septicemia*- it's serious even with prompt attention. If I were you, I'd try explaining the urgency of your snake's need for veterinary help- see if they can't work you in sooner. Or maybe they could do a brief consultation (phone & internet) with another vet that can see you sooner? That's what I'd try, ask anyway. I'd call them back (Calgary Avian & Exotic) & ask if they can just consult w/ your local vet on this? -Since you have tested & are sure it's a staph. aureus infection, they should be able to suggest the right antibiotic that your local vet can prescribe? I know things are difficult, what with winter & covid making businesses short on staff- do the best you can though. Good luck- I hope something works.