Management of Hepatozoonosis and Helminthosis in <i>Python sebae</i>

Four African rock pythons at the Wildlife Park in Nigeria were reported to show clinical signs of reduced appetite and lethargy. In response, the management of the University of Jos Veterinary Teaching Hospital assembled a team to investigate and manage the condition. Initially suspecting helminthosis, the team decided to deworm the snakes using Levamisole at a dose of 10 mg/kg subcutaneously (SC). Whole blood, ectoparasite, and fecal samples were collected. During the handling of the snakes, they were observed to be heavily infested with ticks. Laboratory results later showed the presence of Hepatozoon spp . in the blood and nematode eggs in the feces, prompting a follow-up visit 2 weeks later. During the second visit, the snakes were treated with an injection of ivermectin at 0.1 mg/kg SC, imidocarb dipropionate at 5 mg/kg SC, and atropine sulfate at 0.02 mg/kg SC. Following treatment, the snakes made a full recovery and significantly regained their activity and appetite.