[aSnakeLovinBabe]

At the first sign of respiratory distress, I medicate using a bird antibiotic ornacycline which is made specifically for delicate creatures (birds and reptiles) who are expieriencing respiratory problems. I personally mix up the solution they recommend for larger birds ( 2 tablets or powder packers per 8 ounces o water) and I syringe a healthy amount into my snake to make sure that a good dose is administered. If you have the powder you may also want to consider sprinkling some into the hollowed out belly of a small guppy or minnow. It has worked for me but as was mentioned before, many bacteria have become resistant to tetracycline. The blackish stain you refer to is most likely not mouth rot as long as you don't see anything inside the mouth. It is most likely some built up phlegm or mucous that collected and dried. I saw this once on my checkered albino female. It usually washes away with a warm wet teabag. Of course, don't let the snake swallow any tea. I just like to use warm teabags for this and also on kittens with eye infections, (really helps LOL).

Of course, a vet is always best. But when you have 66 snakes and you catch a problem early, you learn that often it can be rid of before it gets worse before you are spending another $120 at the vet.