Matt,

That's a tough situation and one I have been in before. Personally, I don't sell to inexperienced people if I can avoid it. There is too much hassle especially when they think they know what's going on. Unless your ad guaranteed a feeder, I don't think you are obligated for a refund. That being said, most of us normally try to work something out.

Based on what you have said, I would take the animal back but:

* At a discounted amount. You don't owe him/her anything if they produce no real reasons for not feeding. Inexperience is NOT your responsibility or obligation. Personally, you are doing the buyer a favor at this point. BALL PYTHONS ARE PROBLEM FEEDERS at some point in their life. If you don't want those issues, get a corn.

* He pays for shipping and you don't give a refund until you see the condition of the animal - wait a week or so to ensure the animal was not dying.

* Add this buyer to the "DO NOT SELL" list. Yes, I have one of these.

Another option is to see if there is a local breeder near by that can take the snake for a few weeks to see if they can get it feeding.

And document everything. It sounds like this buyer wants all or nothing so they are bound to try to trash your name.

Sorry and good luck, but this is one of the aspects of this hobby that I really do not enjoy.
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Jay A. Martin
Jay Martin Reptiles

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