She checked the enclosure’s temperature, inspected the water, and reviewed his recent behavior.
Everything appeared normal.
Except Dorato.
Over the next several days, he refused food again.
He also began spending long periods facing the same wall, as though something on the other side had caught his attention.
When Camilla approached, he would slowly turn toward her.
Sometimes he followed her movements with his head.
Other times, he seemed completely unaware of her presence.
She contacted Edoardo Bellini, a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals and one of her oldest friends.
Edoardo had examined Dorato several times over the years. He was familiar with the python’s size and temperament, and he knew Camilla was usually careful about his care.
“Has anything changed in his environment?” he asked during their call.
“Not that I can think of.”
“Temperature? Lighting? Feeding schedule?”
“I checked everything twice.”
“And any recent injuries, unusual movements, or changes in his breathing?”
