Caramel may be considered a "common" ball python by classification, but there’s absolutely nothing ordinary about them. With striking patterns that hint at possible leopard lineage, Caramel is a visual standout—and a heart-stealer, too.
This gentle snake's journey has been one of quiet resilience. Caramel entered the shelter system in early September 2023 as part of an emergency boarding intake that included several other unusual species. Overwhelmed and deeply fearful, they were transferred to rescue care in hopes of reducing stress and encouraging trust through patient, consistent handling.
It took several months before Caramel felt safe enough to be held—but with time, kindness, and a dedicated foster family, they’ve made incredible progress. Though still shy by nature, Caramel is now calm and easy to handle. Their foster describes them as sweet and observant, with a consistent feeding schedule and a love for cozy hides. While not especially active, Caramel enjoys quiet companionship, often content to lounge around the back of the neck for movie nights or calm, extended hangouts—sometimes for up to two hours at a time.
As of April 2025, Caramel has grown from a tiny ball into a healthy 30.5 inches long and weighs just under a pound (1lb 0.9oz / 47.89g). They would thrive in a home with a patient, compassionate guardian who understands that love sometimes takes time—and is willing to offer a safe space to continue blossoming.
Could you be the calm, steady presence Caramel has been waiting for? Click the Adoption Application button below the bio on the RESCUE WEBSITE, and an adoption counselor will be in touch to help Caramel find the peaceful, loving forever home they deserve. Here is the link: https://www.smallbreedrescue.org/Home/AnimalDetails/12468
PLEASE NOTE:
We can only accept applications from interested adopters in or near San Diego County, California.
We do not ship reptiles, but in some cases, we may work with applicants willing to travel within Southern California. This is determined on a case-by-case basis and at the discretion of the board of directors.
Meet Caramel – A Sweet, Shy Soul Looking for Love
Caramel may be considered a "common" ball python by classification, but there’s absolutely nothing ordinary about them. With striking patterns that hint at possible leopard lineage, Caramel is a visual standout—and a heart-stealer, too.
This gentle snake's journey has been one of quiet resilience. Caramel entered the shelter system in early September 2023 as part of an emergency boarding intake that included several other unusual species. Overwhelmed and deeply fearful, they were transferred to rescue care in hopes of reducing stress and encouraging trust through patient, consistent handling.
It took several months before Caramel felt safe enough to be held—but with time, kindness, and a dedicated foster family, they’ve made incredible progress. Though still shy by nature, Caramel is now calm and easy to handle. Their foster describes them as sweet and observant, with a consistent feeding schedule and a love for cozy hides. While not especially active, Caramel enjoys quiet companionship, often content to lounge around the back of the neck for movie nights or calm, extended hangouts—sometimes for up to two hours at a time.
As of April 2025, Caramel has grown from a tiny ball into a healthy 30.5 inches long and weighs just under a pound (1lb 0.9oz / 47.89g). They would thrive in a home with a patient, compassionate guardian who understands that love sometimes takes time—and is willing to offer a safe space to continue blossoming.
Could you be the calm, steady presence Caramel has been waiting for? Click the Adoption Application button below the bio on the RESCUE WEBSITE, and an adoption counselor will be in touch to help Caramel find the peaceful, loving forever home they deserve. Here is the link: https://www.smallbreedrescue.org/Home/AnimalDetails/12468
PLEASE NOTE:
We can only accept applications from interested adopters in or near San Diego County, California.
We do not ship reptiles, but in some cases, we may work with applicants willing to travel within Southern California. This is determined on a case-by-case basis and at the discretion of the board of directors.
Small Breed Rescue of Southern California is an all-volunteer, non-profit, foster based organization funded by donations. We are dedicated to rescuing small breed dogs, small reptiles and select exotic pets primarily from public shelters and other rescues. Being committed to keeping administrative expenses low, virtually every dollar received goes directly to the care of the animals.
Our rescue is uniquely structured to rehabilitate animals who are at high risk of euthanasia due to manageable behavioral challenges, such as dogs who are declining in a shelter environment or reptiles / exotics that have not been properly handled over their lifetime. We develop relationships to accommodate these specific assistance needs, which is what differentiates us from other rescue organizations.
We have assembled a foster team that consists of experienced individuals who bring particular skills from the animal welfare industry. This enables us to grow, educate and enrich our foster community in a manner that supports our specific needs and those of our animals.
Our group remains interested in and committed to the welfare of the animals beyond the adoption process by providing education, training tips, resource references, and an open door policy to our adopters.
Small Breed Rescue of Southern California is an all-volunteer, non-profit, foster based organization funded by donations. We are dedicated to rescuing small breed dogs, small reptiles and select exotic pets primarily from public shelters and other rescues. Being committed to keeping administrative expenses low, virtually every dollar received goes directly to the care of the animals.
Our rescue is uniquely structured to rehabilitate animals who are at high risk of euthanasia due to manageable behavioral challenges, such as dogs who are declining in a shelter environment or reptiles / exotics that have not been properly handled over their lifetime. We develop relationships to accommodate these specific assistance needs, which is what differentiates us from other rescue organizations.
We have assembled a foster team that consists of experienced individuals who bring particular skills from the animal welfare industry. This enables us to grow, educate and enrich our foster community in a manner that supports our specific needs and those of our animals.
Our group remains interested in and committed to the welfare of the animals beyond the adoption process by providing education, training tips, resource references, and an open door policy to our adopters.
Other pets at this
rescue
We'll also keep you updated on Jiaolong's adoption status with email updates.
