>>Well, the only reason I check my snakes is that I've heard a lot of horror stories of people not noticing RIs until it was too late, or nearly so. Because of my regular checks, I caught



Nothing wrong with being aware. I think that's the real problem with RI and other illnesses - awareness. BPs do not typically develop RI overnight. I believe many owners who find themselves with a snake with RI have neglected (intentional or unintentional) their snakes requirements to the point that the symptoms of RI are now excessive. Had they paid more attention and/or know what to look for, most would not be in this situation. Look at all the stories here on this forum about BPs being lost for months at a time. These guys aren't all succumbing to RI as the supposedly "cared" for BPs are.



>> the only RI I've had so far in very early stages (no wheezing, yawning, mucus bubles, etc), and thus was very easy to



I consider mucus bubbles an advanced stage they should get vetinary attention. Wheezing, alone, has always been enough sign to indicate there MIGHT be a problem. Some of my snakes wheez just prior to shed.



>>treat. Now that winter's over and I can keep my humidty levels constant (the heater dried out the cages something FIERCE), I don't have to check them as often. Every few months, unless I notice something that's cause for a check-up.



I still think this is too intrusive and unecessary. In the 25 years I have been caring for snakes, I have never had to do this nor have I had a single snake require medical attention or meds for RI.



>>It's no more dangerous than giving oral medication, since what I actually use (unless I'm checking a snake at the petstore that looks sick, or an animal I'm gonna buy) is a syringe that I got for giving oral Baytril. And it'd be strssful if I did it, say, every week, but I don't.



I thought you said a pen in your first post. At any rate, securing a snake and wedge (force) its mouth open is still stressful. You also run the risk of damage to the gums and teeth.



I'm not saying what you are doing is wrong. I'm saying, I have never had to resort to anything this intrusive.
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Jay A. Martin

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