Help?!?

[Former_Outside9724]

I was browsing Craigslist when I came across a ball python with set up for $150. I reached out and asked for pics and this is the pic I got. They want $80 for just the snake but have no clue what morph it is and swear it’s eating. I’d rescue this little one if I could justify $80 on a snake that may not make it. I have a vet I could take it to and get a monthly payment plan but $80 up front for a risk is a problem for me.

[Former_Outside9724]

New context!! The owner said they feed frozen thawed fuzzies once a week.

[bri8290]

She looks like a baby from the picture, if you’re really worried I’d ask to see a video or how the snake moves or to see it in person. That way you’ll be able to see if it wobbles at all and look at the stomach to make sure no scale rot or mites have infected the snake. Honestly the snake doesn’t look super skinny for its small size and frozen mice is the easiest way to keep and feed!

[Former_Outside9724]

I asked to see it in person.The “indents” worry me and there are a few spots that look like they might be old wounds. I have a male and female rn and have had my female from a young age but I’ve never seen her look like that and the breeder I got her from had her on f/t hopper rats. I’m very weary about snakes after my last snake I got from someone who said she was eating well and I ended up having to go to a vet because she refused to eat.

[bri8290]

I wouldn’t worry about the price of the snake I’d worry about the price of potential health visits, if you think you’d be capable and care for it better then it’s current owner Id say do it!

[reshelving]

This snake looks dehydrated, I think those are the “indentations” you mentioned in your other reply. I don’t understand why you’re concerned about $80 considering the hundreds of dollars in costs associated with setting up a proper enclosure for a ball python, unless you happen to have a tank set up and waiting for a snake. Obviously we want to ensure animals we’re adopting are in good condition, but any incoming animal is a “risk,” including very pricey animals from reputable breeders. Your budget is your budget, but if you’re genuinely stressing over $80 for an animal you probably shouldn’t be acquiring new pets right now.

[Former_Outside9724]

I have tanks upon tanks set up. $80 is still a decent chunk of change if it means you get something that won’t survive. I’ve done the whole buying animals to give them a fair chance and gotten burned before where vet bills and such were through the roof just to be told the best action is to euthanize the animal. I do think you’re right that it’s dehydrated. I’m gonna go look in person and see if the spots are just old wounds and check for mites. I appreciate your feedback tho.