For what I'm sure is the 500th time on here - how often is too often to handle?

I hear everything from "only handle your BP in an emergency" (what? a fire?!) to "I handle mine every day and he sits in my lap while we watch television." I do quite enjoy handling my snake as he is very tame and curious and friendly (see avatar), and I'd like to do so daily unless he's recently eaten, but I don't know how LONG it's okay to handle him. I mean, once he's hanging out with me he either relaxes (not balls) in my lap, gently wraps around my arm or climbs for a bit. Not much different than what he does in his tank, I guess. I don't want to bother the crap out of him but I do love being near him. If he's not showing signs of stress, is there a time limit?

I'm no snake expert, but as far as I know, as long as a snake isn't showing aggression/defensive language then there is really no problem. Even when showing such, regular handling builds a trust and tolorance from a snake. Of course you'd want the snake to be comfortable, extended periods away from his hotspot and preventing thermoregulation when it's cold out may not be the best idea. Those are just my two cents.

He's usually a total kitten in and out of his tank, so he seems okay - I guess that's why I am worried that he's harboring some deep-seated hatred towards me.

As far as temp goes, I'm a Florida transplant and usually have the heat cranked in my room, even in summer (I'm in Oregon). My electric bill hates me but my snake probably prefers it.

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Originally Posted by StephenT

I'm no snake expert, but as far as I know, as long as a snake isn't showing aggression/defensive language then there is really no problem. Even when showing such, regular handling builds a trust and tolorance from a snake. Of course you'd want the snake to be comfortable, extended periods away from his hotspot and preventing thermoregulation when it's cold out may not be the best idea. Those are just my two cents.

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You are going to get a bunch of differing opinions on this topic.

In my opinion, as long as they don't seem stressed (balled up, aggressive), you can handle them as long as you see fit. Sometimes I'll have my guy out for an hour and other times only a few minutes. Depends what he feels like. If he's exploring, I'll keep him out but if he is just sitting balled up or not moving I'll put him back.

It all depends on the individual animal. Most in my collection have no problem with a lot of handling. A couple do not care for it at all. As long as the animal is eating and shedding well the handling is not affecting them in a negative manner.