Reptile & Amphibian Forums

the ball python i may adopt is currently has a whistle when she breaths, and has a few old scales left on her head. What should i do?

Also, you was your hands after handling reptiles, what if it comes in contact with other parts of your body?

Please awnswer both questions

thanks,
-tyrel-

1.I always wash my hands before and after I handle my herps with germ-x from walmart. It's the waterless hand sani stuff. I wouldn't worry about other parts of your body unless you will be in contact with your established collection. Basically washing your hands is just so you don't but bacteria in your mouth when you eat or rub it into your eyes.
2. If there is a whistle I would recommend a vert check up. Possible RI or something else can't say for sure with hearing and seeing the snake. If you do take it to the vet you can get a full health check and it will be worth your while. If there is shed left on the snake try raising the humidity or a warm{not hot} bath to saok in. Good luck and keep us updated.
Abby

Sounds like a RI but you will need to take it to the vet to be sure and for medication to be administered. I reccomend a vet visit for every new snake no matter how healthy it looks. BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY.

Good luck to all this breeding season.

www.freewebs.com/bande-ballpythons

What is RI? Is it serious, and can it hurt people or other animals? what are the chances of her having it?

-tyrel-

...do as Abby says and have a qualified herp vet check out your snake...don't worry about the retained skin...it can easily be removed...when sick the snake will enter a shed cycle again soon...the RI needs to be attended to sooner...

Good luck...

Scott J. Michaels DVM
Serpent City