Snake getting cold while handling?

[Greg31]

I was just wondering if having a my ball out in my apartment for too long would be a bad thing? Room temperature is around 70 degrees which is obviously too cold for him to be comfortable.

I am asking because I know some people handle their snakes for hours and the temperature is probably not a big concern.

[redstormlax12]

I would say yes. Long exposure to low temperatures can cause RI's (respiratory infections) and other illnesses. Though the heat from your body, such as the heat from your hands while holding, does help heat their body like a heat mat. I wouldn't recommend handling for any more than an hour if not less.

[Tikall]

I wouldn't have a snake out on the floor for too long, no. But, some people like relaxing at the computer or television with a snake on their lap and as long as the snake tolerates handling well, I don't think this is an issue. As said above, your body will heat the snake, and I only do this with snakes that remain calm (they'll basically fall asleep or act close to it) and are eating consistently. I've watched entire movies with a snake on my lap without any bad consequences.

If the room temperature got very low though, ambient temps should be taken into account. Some people don't heat their houses at all and live in areas where it gets quite chilly, and this would not be ideal for taking a snake out in. However, at 70 degrees for ambient I don't think you have a problem.

[Hapa_Haole]

An hour in 70F won't give your snake an RI. Cold weather can't be the cause of an RI, it can just make them more susceptible to them.

IMO an hour out of the heat won't be bad for them. They might just slow down a bit but no damage will be done.

Dennis

[sarahlovesmiike]

I'm naturally cold all the time, my hands are always freezing. I make sure I run them under hot water or put them on the heater before I handle anyone. Not that it could cause a RI, but I imagine it's probably not very comfortable for the snake to be picked up by some one to feels like an ice cube.

[hunter94]

My BP doesn't get cold to fast when he is out. He always thinks my hand is a cave when its cupped and he try's to get in lol. >.>