this reminds me of my pet ball python. Somewhat of a long story but worth sharing. I had gone browsing through my local mall and of course made a trip to the pet store. I was completely SHOCKED to see a ball python for sale (for $100 no less) that was completely infested with ticks, mites, had scale rot, and a NASTY burn on his head because they didn't cage the heating lamp. I was about a foot and a half long at that point, also very thin. I brought this to the attention of an employee and said i would buy the snake at a discount as long as i got everything else for free (a couple mice, some bedding, a tank, water dish, heating pad) After some negotiation and threats, we finally agreed on it. Now, ticks aren't a HUGE problem to get rid of, however mites and scale rot are. And the burn on his head was so bad that one night as he was trying to shed (which came of in tiny flakes because of is condition) he tore off the scab and his skull was exposed. After two years of nurturing and care he was FINALLY completely healed. This took daily care, everyday, all year long. Now i know they say snakes don't form bonds with people, but damn it, i swear this one did.