When defrosting a rodent I would put it in a plastic bag before tossing in the water. That's what I do anyway. Some snakes will take the prey if you just drop it in, but sometimes you have to resort to the 'zombie dance'. Use a pair of hemostats or tongs (NOT FINGERS) to dangle the pup by the tale. Just make sure it's fully defrosted before feeding. You should be able to squish the belly. Sounds like loads of fun, huh?