help!! Substrate stuck under yearling scale?

[worstcasewoman]

Hi! So I’ve had my spotted python since February and everything’s been running smoothly - however today whilst handling I’ve noticed one of the belly scales has been crammed with substrate and I’m worried it will develop into further scale rot !! Does anyone know how to clean it or should I take it to the vet!?

 

[Talanthas]

It does look pretty well packed in. Have you tried a warm water soak? That would be the first thing I would try in the hope it might all soften up and come out on its own. I must admit though I don't own any snakes and am pretty much a complete newbie so my suggestion is a complete guess.

 

[Rainbow-Serpent]

I'd try a nice warm water soak, and then gently using a sterilised tool (even a sterilised nail file) to manually coax the rest out.