Brand New BP Owner Question about Handling Snake for the 2nd Time.
About 10 days ago, I purchased an 18" BP for my 5 yr old grandson. Other than us holding the snake for 5-10 minutes on day 7, it has not been handled other than to be transferred to it's new enclosure, and into it's feeding tub for his/her first meal & cage cleaning. I've waited until this evening because I am home alone, the house is quiet etc. His day time light goes off in about an hour and then his red light bulb for night time viewing goes on. He typically comes out of his hide after red bulb has been on for about an hour and explores the cage, goes for a dip in his water bowl. He finished his first shed (other than two 1/2 in to 3/4 in spots on his back) 2 days ago.
I would love it if eventually he adjusts to being handled on a regular basis. If he actually enjoyed it...bonus! If I handle him this evening for about 15-20 minutes and do so again say, maybe every other day and increase the time by 5 minutes each time...is it ok to work upwards of an hour too much? That is if he's not going into shed, it's been several days since he ate etc. It's important to me to be as prepared as possible and to do right by the snake. I don't want to do anything to harm or scare him, and I'm prepared mentally (at least I keep telling myself that I am....lol!) to be bitten. I have 4 tattoos and if I can live through that...I better be able to handle a bite. Also, I've handled other peoples snakes before.
I believe it is best to go to the source to have questions answered and nothing against the big retailers...but I'd rather get my info from those that are practicing what they love to do. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
NaNa
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