Black Rat Snake Rescue

[guidofatherof5]

Thanks. Hope he can get some weight on before the release.

So, does it look like the initial infection is gone and there's just healing taking place? Are you still treating the injury at all or just after a shed?

[EKS56]

After he shed the wound looked real raw so we put a coat of Neosporin on it. The initial infection has been resolved.

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

I also have a rescued netting snake this year as well. She is an eastern milksnake... she had exactly the same types of wounds on her. She is healing up really nicely, much like this animal. You might want to check your local laws before re-releasing the snake. Sometimes after a certain amount of time in captivity it's no longer legal or a good idea to release the snake. During it's time in captivity it can pick up things from other captive animals and feeders that don't naturally occur and then introduce them to the environment when released. Even if they haven't visually done this snake harm, it doesn't mean they can't wreak havoc down the road on something. This is one of the hugest contributors to how things like Chytrid Fungus keep spreading. Personally if you intend to have it through next spring I would consider adopting it out or keeping it yourself.

[EKS56]

I actually think Black Rat snakes are cool. They are the largest snakes in the area I live in. I have some time to think about it. It's not the friendliest snake I have had to deal with. I have to be careful even with gloves on. I have to consider though the snake is pretty roughed up so I have been avoiding picking him up and in turn we have been feeding him in the same tub we keep him in. He's no dummy, he has figured out biting the glove was nonproductive and he no longer goes for the glove but he'll come across the cage to get to my bare hand.

[EKS56]

Day-35 A good report. He had a complete shed from nose to tail. It came off in two pieces but was completely unassisted. Well I did pull about the last two inches off being impatient. The wound is getting smaller and this time it doesn't look nearly as raw.
He still looks a little scruffy in areas but I am real pleased with his progress. I'm still thinking I'll keep him over winter. If I do I'll need to get him a cage that is a little more comfortable. Right now the tub is more to my liking because it is more suited for a moist environment.

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[jwolfe152]

yea he does look much better good job

[guidofatherof5]

That is looking good. The scar tissue is developing nicely. Nice work on everyone's part.

If I were ever a rat snake with that type of injury I would come to you for help.

[Mommy2many]

Nice job! He is looking so much better! Thank you for taking care of him instead of letting him suffer.

[EKS56]

Day 45 and I am much surprised at the improvement since the last shed. It looks as if the black scaly portion will eventually grow back together.

Day 1 Day 45
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[guidofatherof5]

I don't think so. It may pull closer together because scar tissue isn't as pliable and the scar tissue will turn more black in color.
Just my opinion.
It's looking very good. You guys have done a great job.