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Re: More about mites.
Hey Mike,
I'd offer the same advice as James. It wouldn't hurt to wash it off in warm (~90F/32C), soapy water, but the vegetable oil treatment isn't real popular these days because the snake can't get around as well when it's covered in oil, and it smears the oil everywhere. Some of the oil inevitably rubs off, and leaves untreated patches. That's why the newer treatments have generally gained favor. Yet, all pesticide are designed to kill organisms, and most (not all) work through the nervous system. Others affect their metabolic rate, and essentially cause them to overheat until they die. The only reason they don't hurt or kill larger organisms like your snake as quickly, is that the dose is different (due to different masses). That's why it's generally best to only treat for problems you recognize.
When you get your snake and before you wash it, you can rub it down with a wet, white paper towel and look for tiny black mites crawling around on the paper towell. Also pay attention to whether the snake hangs out in the water bowl. If so, just mention it online, and there will be plenty of people able to give you the right advise. Best,
Rick
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