Hello and thanks for researching this very important question!

Snakes kept in too-wet conditions can develop a blister disease...this causes raised, puffy, infected blisters under the scales. This condition usually starts on the underside scales that are exposed to dirty, wet bedding.

Since you are only seeing a pigment change, and the skin is otherwise healthy, I do not have a concern at this time that your pet is sick. Albino snakes can frequently have some pigment conversion in isolated scales!

Plan:

1) Keep an eye on these scales...if they blister or appear to rot or fester, have this pet examined by a reptile veterinarian right away. You can use these sites to help locate qualified help, since not all vet clinics are familiar with reptile handling and medicine:

http://www.reptilecare.com/herpvets.htm

http://www.herpvetconnection.com/

http://www.anapsid.org/vets/

2) Reptiles brumate--this is a subtler form of hybernation involving taking light and heat cues and resting. Water should always be available, but food may be refused. This is a normal (and some keepers insist, necessary) part of their annual cycle. It is most often necessary to respect it if breeding is planned for the spring.

http://www.gartersnake.info/care/hibernation.phtml

http://www.pbase.com/cbernz/garter

3) Continue studying! This is one of the most diverse and interesting captive snake species, active and personable. Garter snakes can live as long as 15 years in captivity, but are prone to developing a number of internal tumors that can interfere with digestion, and limit longevity.

Food items fed to snakes should be as large in diameter as the thickest part of the snake's abdomen--this ensures proper nutrient, protein and calcium content. Don't be afraid to use larger goldfish at this point, you'd obviously have to use fewer in number.

This is an excellent informational site with links to other tips:

http://www.anapsid.org/gartcare.html

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