new ball python couple of questions

i just got a new ball python yesterday and i handled him a lot at the store but today wehn i was holding him he struck at me? im wondering why and what could i have done to cause this i also have a dog but i washed my hands before i went to hold him. if anyone can help me thatd be great. thanks

i should also add that today was supposed to be his feeding day

I groom dogs professionally and I always come home smelling like a lot of dogs, no matter how many times I wash my hands I'm sure they can smell it. Never seems to entice them to strike.

My thought is that he's probably stressed about the change in environment...leave him alone for a few days to acclimate to his new surroundings.

so far he looks like he loves the new environment, he roams around and explores a lot. could it also be the fact that he was hungry too? i put 2 f/t pinkies in and he ate them pretty quick

Id say the snake probably smelled the dog anyway and you also sound like you didnt let the snake get comfortable in its new environment first. Feed and let your snake for at least a week before handling again.

so after the next feed time i should be able to hold him with him being used to the environment and having been fed twice?

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Originally Posted by jinkstuh

so after the next feed time i should be able to hold him with him being used to the environment and having been fed twice?

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If the snake is hiding a lot, not cruising during the day, and eating consistently then it is fine to handle them. I noticed you said you are feeding it pinks? These are far too small and you need to upgrade the food or the snake will always be hungry, therefore cruising a lot.


"Exploring" = cruising. This is not a good thing. It means that your snake is uncomfortable. If you could take some pictures of your set up we could help determine why it's cruising. The fact that it is eating is great, but it should be hiding and digesting if it just ate.