Pat, I'm too proprietary, but if I get in over my head, I will.

Connie, thanks for the advice. I did pierce it last night and get some puss out. You are right about it spreading. I could already see it elongating on his belly in both directions.

Also, I finally got in contact with a snake rehabber in NY - not close to home, but sounds like she knows what she is talking about. She wants me to swab the area with betadine 2x a day. I'm waiting to hear back from her on more details (diluted betadine or straight? Baytril or not? etc.). I do think I should do the Baytril, too, but I want to verify with someone and see what they think in terms of dose. Based on weight, I could extrapolate given our ball python's weight and the dosage she was taking for her URI.

Once I hear back from the gal in NY, I may call around to some vets and see if they are willing to help with meds, etc. The one vet I called was very "by the book" and not willing to give information, etc. To be honest, I am not a certified wildlife rehabber, but at least I have some knowledge about snakes and all the motivation in the world.

Thanks! I'll keep you posted. And, any more ideas, just bring 'em on!