Boa constrictor with severe burns is nursed back to health at Chorley pet shop
6:00pm Saturday 20th October 2012 in News
By Chris Gee, Reporter
Joseph Croft with Dude
MEET Dude - a five foot long boa constrictor who incredibly survived serious burns and seven months without eating to wriggle his way back to health.
When Dude was deposited with them earlier this year, staff at Paradise Pets in Chorley feared the snake was in such poor condition he was about to slither of this mortal coil.
But now, thanks to the loving care of volunteer Richard Bowes and the advice of Tip and Amy Croft at the Harpers Lane pet shop, Dude is on the lookout for a loving, permanent home.
Richard, 28, said: “When I got Dude the bottom third of his body was badly blistered because he had been kept in an incorrect set-up and had burned himself on lighting bulbs used for his tank.
“He wouldn’t eat or take water. In fact he didn’t eat anything for seven months and I used a syringe to inject his mouth with water.
“I also applied antibiotic cream every day to his lower scales. His bottom third was badly shrivelled, there didn’t look much hope for him really.”
However, the careful nurturing worked and Dude perked up, so much so he is now eating, drinking and able to be handled again.
“He’s eaten two large mice and a rat since he got better and is thriving again,” said Michael.
“Dude lives up to his name in that he’s a pretty laid back and cool character. I’m so glad he’s got over his problems.”
Boas can live in captivity for between 20 and 30 years and can reach 10 feet in length. Dude is around four years old.
Michael is looking for a ‘forever’ home for Dude, meaning someone who has experience of keeping reptiles and an adequate set-up to look after him.
Anyone wishing to express an interest in taking Dude is asked to call Paradise Pets on 01257 268268.
