Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a problem snake. I got into black rat snakes because they are so hardy. I had one given to me, and fell in love. Finally, last summer, i got a white sided- my dream snake. I love it, but, it's a problem animal. It's shed for me twice so far, and is in shed now. The first went good, except its tail stayed on. This current shed is long overdue, and she hasn't even started to shed the skin. It's loose, hanging all over her body. Her eyes are milky. I've been spraying her VERY heavily, but it hasn't helped. I have her soaking now in warm water, but that doesn't seem to be helping, either. It's as if she hasn't rubbed at all. It's not even starting to peel back. The skin seems to be drying out bad, because it isn't coming off. I'm worried that if it doesn't come off soon, it'll start causing permanent damage.

Anyone have any suggestions on what to do if this soaking doesn't work?

thanks,
Ron

A few things that might help. Soaking and misting which you're already doing. Adding something rough (I just add a couple stones) to the enclosure so that when the snake is ready to shed it has something to rub against. Adding a moist hide box to the cage- tupperware type container with a hole cut in the lid for the snake to enter with moistened moss or paper towels inside that the snake can retreat to. A couple days after the snakes eyes clear, you can put it in a damp pillow case for a few hours. Just dampen most of the pillowcase or put a wet washcloth in there. The snake can rub against the fabric and that will usually get the shed started. For peace of mind, put the pillowcase with the snake in it back into the secure cage- in case the snake manages to get out of the pillowcase.
Lora