Ball python burn, should I be worried ?

[Cristian22]

So it’s been about 3 weeks since my ball python got burned from her underbelly it’s stuck with coco fiber though so her skin is like fused with the substrate should I take her to the vet?

 

[schmiggle]

Yes.

 

[Jurdon]

Yes, no questions asked. Inverts are different because vets cannot treat them, but if your reptile is sick or injured TAKE. IT. TO. THE. VET. That being said, a vet is useless if you don’t address what flaw in care there was to cause this. What heating source do you use, and is it regulated?

 

[The Snark]

With all burns, the tissue is devascularized. Simply put, no blood flow: the immune system has shut down at the site of the injury. If infection occurs, likely, it takes extraordinary measures to control it, if it even can be stopped. Vets (or doctors) have a huge arsenal of weapons to control infections. The average animal keeper only has minor first aid measures.

 

[Hellblazer]

Start using proper heat sources regulated by a thermostat so that doesn't happen again. Things like hot rocks and unregulated heat pads that pet stores will push on you are garbage for this reason.

 

[basin79]

Should you take her to the vet? Yes. 3 weeks ago.

Then whilst she's at the vet have a proper read up on their care.

 

[boina]

Yes, you should be worried. A burn like that can very well kill your snake, as @The Snark already explained. Infection takes a while to kill a snake and is not that easy to treat, especially with a serious burn wound like this, that can get re-infected over and over again. Snake skin takes endless to heal.

That's why you don't EVER use unregulated heat sources, especially not the ridiculous stuff you get in your average LPS.