Kingsnake keepers-- a little help please???

[Lori P]

OK, a little clarification is needed. I made the post about the apricot Pueblan and I stand by that. The part that I edited (completely removed actually) was a little rant about selling non feeders but I failed to see in the picture the N/E which I assume to mean non eating so my rant was uncalled for. The editing had nothing to do with the Apricot Pueblan and the picture I was referring to in my reason for editing was the picture of the kingsnake in the deli.

Sorry if this causes any confusion, and my explanation will probably be even more confusing.

No confusion... Brant was VERY open about the fact that she was not feeding. And he gave me a lot of tips to try, it's just that... well, he told me to "brain" a live pinky and try that for a while. Guys, I can't do it!!!!!!! If that's what it takes to get her feeding, I will HAVE to find someone else to do it... I don't want the snake to die, but omg, the thought of stabbing a baby mouse in the brain makes me sick and teary. He said you don't kill the baby, you stick it and let it squirm... I just can't, what if that causes horrid pain to that baby?????

There were several people at the expo who had tubs of "non-feeders" for very cheap prices. If they are all as open as Brant, and offering lots of tips (he also told me to call/email him anytime for advice) do you think it's still a bad idea to sell them? I'm just curious as to your opinion, so rant away. :-) :-)

[garterking]

No confusion... Brant was VERY open about the fact that she was not feeding. And he gave me a lot of tips to try, it's just that... well, he told me to "brain" a live pinky and try that for a while. Guys, I can't do it!!!!!!! If that's what it takes to get her feeding, I will HAVE to find someone else to do it... I don't want the snake to die, but omg, the thought of stabbing a baby mouse in the brain makes me sick and teary. He said you don't kill the baby, you stick it and let it squirm... I just can't, what if that causes horrid pain to that baby?????

Lori, Try braining a f/t pinky first if you haven't already. That might get you past that situation, or a live pink. I had a 50/50 Cali king that would only eat live pinks at first. I did eventually switch to f/t, but it took some time and patience. In my opinion, you're at a stage that with a baby going this long, you might have to force. I hate the thought of it as it stresses the snake out (and me too) but after his first meal, hopefully it would just come natural after. Good luck, and keep us posted.