Pet rescued from neighbour’s drainpipe
Heston, the corn snake, escaped from his vivarium and has been found 18 months later at a neighbouring property in Strand Road, Wirral.
Animal welfare officer John Littlewood was called to the home to rescue Heston last Wednesday, after he was spotted slithering out of plastic piping from a neighbour’s washing machine.
Owner Paul Sheratt was "shocked" when the snake was confirmed as Heston, after giving up hope of finding him. "I was talking to a neighbour when they mentioned that a snake had been found at one of the houses on the street. When they described it to me it did sound just like Heston."
Mr Sheratt was reunited with Heston after providing descriptions of very distinctive marks matching those of the escapee.
Mr Littlewood said: "It is very unusual for a snake to survive on his own in the open for so long as snakes have very particular environmental needs."
The RSPCA are advising owners to ensure their vivaria are safe and secure to prevent snakes escaping.
Mr Sheratt is delighted to have him home. "It’s great to have him back. We just wonder where he has been all this time!"
Image © RSPCA
RCVS Knowledge has welcomed Professor Peter Cockcroft as editor-in-chief for Veterinary Evidence. 
