How to give an IM injection to a boa?

I need to help a non-reptile vet give an IM Baytril injection to my boa. Neither she nor I have done this before, can anyone tell me the best place to give it? I assume alongside the spine?

Full story at

http://www.faunaclassifieds.com/foru...d.php?t=640431

Thanks for any help

Front third of the boa, on one side or the other in the muscle of the neck. Slip the point of the needle under a scale and then into the critter. One of you holds the snake, the other gives the shot.

Baytril is usually given every 3 days for 30 days. I alternate sides for mine.

Great Melinda, the exact information I needed, thanks very much

When my boa had an cold I had hive baytril orally thru a syringe in the mouth a 10 day course, he wasn’t impressed but it did the job


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks Richard.

Did you give tablets or does it come as a drinkable liquid? Last time I thought I had a problem there were only tablets available, so I crushed them up and pipetted a suspension into their throats. Didn't make me popular with the snakes, and not sure it was effective, but it was all I had at the time. Do you remember the dosage you gave?

Hi Helen
It was a clear liquid and I’m sure it was 10mm every day for day days,the vet just told me to make sure it went to the back of the throat , my 6ft boa wasn’t impressed but he never once nipped me, he is a big softie anyway but if there ever was a time ,I’m Sure it would of been then


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Sorry 10days


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks Richard, it gives me fodder for discussion when I get him to the vet tomorrow.

Good luck for tomorrow then, hope they get it sorted for you


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Also, a 45 degree angle at entry helps ensure it stays in the muscle and doesn't go into the body cavity. It honestly isn't too bad, but you keep smaller species which can be a bit more challenging.