What's the best way to format source code on IMs to preserve indenting?

Is there a way to preserve indenting in instant messengers when you are pasting source code to a co-worker?

In particular I'm trying to write some python code via google talk, but all tabs are removed.

From stackoverflow

• Paste the code into http://pastebin.com and get a short link to use in an IM or IRC conversation. (Disclosure: I run that site, "other pastebins are available!" :)

  Brian R. Bondy : Is there a private option?

  Paul Dixon : sort of, just make up a domain like http://brianbondy.pastebin.com