While it is true that Ball Pythons CAN swim, it is not something that they would NORMALLY do by choice. If your asking if you can take it in the pool or bathtub with you, then the answer would be a very emphatic no. UNDER water is NOT an option!!!



If, however, your snake is dehydrated or has a bad shed, then soaking is a possible solution. The proper way to do that would be to use an appropriate sized CLEAR plastic tub with a lid and plenty of ventilation holes. For a baby snake, a plastic shoebox would be about the right size. Put about one 1/2 to 1 inch of 85 degrees fahrenheit water in the tub. The temperature is VERY important! Place the snake in the tub, put the lid on, and watch him very closely. You can leave him in the tub for about an hour, then take him out.



If its a bad shed, VERY gently rub the loose skin in the head to tail direction to remove it. Never rub from tail to head, and never force the shed skin off if it is still hanging on tight. If it doesn't come off easily, leave it on and seek help. If he has retained eyecaps, leave it to the experts. Generally, they'll come off the next time he sheds. If not, seek help. Bad sheds are usually caused by too low humidity in the enclosure, so you might want to research proper humidity for Ball Pythons.



If you're soaking him because he's dehydrated, put him back in the cage after soaking, make sure he has fresh water, and lightly mist the cage to raise the humidity. A visit to your local reptile vet might be in order.



Hope this has answered your question.

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