Snake Autopsy

Kimo · 06-27-04, 10:01 AM

Just curious how much they generally cost...as i lost one of my snakes, and am absolutely confused on why it died, so i think an autopsy would be advised, if anyone can give me information, id greatly appreciate it

Kimo

lolaophidia · 06-28-04, 05:48 AM

I paid around $125 US for a necropsy on one of my snakes. The price will vary from vet to vet and depend on lab work required. I'm not sure how much it might be in Canada. Do not freeze the animal, instead keep it refrigerated. If the body has begun to decompose, it will be a lot harder to determine cause of death.

Will · 06-28-04, 11:00 AM

Don't freeze the body, if you can help it(I did with mine). This causes the cells to crystallize & rupture, thus screwing up tissues that may be essential in diagnosing. If you can get it to the vet within a few days, wrap it up and put it in a ziplock bag in the fridge(also, mark the bag 'DO NOT OPEN' or you may have angry family members - trust me, lol).

The one I had done, my vet did not charge for the actual necropsy. I had to pay for some tissue tests that were sent off to a lab, but she gave me the option of doing them or not. That was only around $50 CDN. Tissue tests may or may not be helpful(in my case they weren't really). The necropsy, however, was very helpful and I am really glad she offered to do it.