So, I go back to the vet today...

Byron · #1 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 07:43 PM

to drop off a sample to be tested for parasites in my IJ. when I took my bp last week, I took my IJ along just because.

Well, it turns out that the bp is ok and the IJ has parasites.... wth?

They gave me Panacur for both. The administering of the meds didnt go as well as planned. I guess I didnt put the dose far enough down their throats?
How far should I stick the syringe before squeezing out the meds? Any hints or suggestions to make the next time go a little smoother?

After getting most of it in their mouth, I tried to feed them (about 30 mins later) and neither wanted to eat. The bp usually attacks the f/t but not this time. I really didn't expect the IJ to eat since I only offered f/t to her as well.

I dont know if the parasites came from the live mice, but its time to switch. Hopefully next times goes a little better for her.

I always wash my hands before and after handling each snake. I remove the defecate as soon as I notice it. I clean once a week and sanitize about once a month.

Is there anything else I should do or be aware of?

Sakara · #2 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 08:13 PM

I had to give one of my boas meds before because he had worms from live prey -_- Get a 2nd helper to hold the body, stick the little tube in the back of the throat and SLOWLY plunge... The first time I did it, it was everywhere

the following times I did it a LOT slower and made sure it went down the throat before I gave him more... They deff. don't like it and it's not fun... but yea... If he has worms, expect the most disgusting poo u have ever seen or smelled once those meds take effect, lol

Byron · #3 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 08:26 PM

gee, that sounds like something i look forward to.

Not sure if I need a 2nd person for the meds, she's just a little over 2'.... but yeah, she didnt like it at all.

Byron · #4 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 08:36 PM

should I give the meds on non feeding days? just wondering if it had anything to do with neither of them eating today.

I'm pretty sure I shouldn't do it after they eat to avoid a regurge.

Sakara · #5 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 08:59 PM

I did not feed my boy for the entire time he was getting meds... I gave him food the week after he was done...

and the 2nd pair of hands is to help keep him from flailing around

Byron · #6 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 09:34 PM

was the no food your choice or Dr's orders? a month seems like a long tome for an IJ thats under a year and a bp thats around 6 months.

With me trying to swap the IJ to f/t, her mot eating might be of her own choice.

Sakara · #7 (**permalink**) 09-29-2009, 11:17 PM

my choice... and it wont hurt them to go a week or 2 with no food, lol

Byron · #8 (**permalink**) 09-30-2009, 12:04 AM

well, they're going at least 2 weeks since neither wanted to eat today.

Thanks for the info and opinion.

HERPHAPPY · #9 (**permalink**) 09-30-2009, 12:17 AM

I'd be afraid of injuring the snakes mouth & throat that way, and from all the snakes I have tube-fed, it should go further down than that if you don't want to see it again...I'd ask the vet to supply a syringe (no needle) and catheter...suck the med into syringe, put on the catheter (adjusted to fit snug) and expell the air from the catheter until you see the med come out the tip; a drop of veg oil on outside of catheter helps it slide in...if you can get your snake to gulp a little water first, that helps too. The catheter goes in gently until you meet a slight resistance, then STOP...should be just above stomach, where you want it...push out the med and gently withdraw the catheter (thoroughly wash & dry for future use)....very few snakes will or can chuck it this way. Have fun... you can also dose their f/t food if you can fit it in... but ask your vet, 'cause you might need a bigger dose with food...it is less effective than way. I'd suggest u learn the tube-feed approach, comes in real handy and no harm to snake.

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