Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just found a 2 and a half foot long gopher snake in a parking lot, with a couple inches of his tail amputated(ran over by a car, it looks like...no bone remaining, a little flesh)his cloaca is in tact, the bleeding has stopped, but he appeares very sluggish, he didn't try to get away, but he is still very much alive....though incredibly scared, obviously..

How can I help him? does anyone have expeirience with anything like this, and what are his chances of surviving once realised?

I live in Idaho, and I'm pretty sure its a great plains...but I don't want to bother him to look more.

It was recent, I can tell by the still open wound...I really feel horrible for this snake...any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

If the injury is limited to the tail distal from the vent it is not going to involve any vital organs. Keep him on clean substrate with clean water, a hide and adequate warmth. If there is necrotic tissue still attached it needs to be removed before gangrene spreads further up the snake. I am not sure what to recommend but I'd say an antibacterial ointment might be in order as well. I would also try to feed him soon. There have been a lot of snakes that have survived with these types and other injuries. Keep us posted please.

Randy
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Firehouse Herps